With Washington being controlled by the democrats come January, health insurance companies are hoping to gain new business from policy changes that are likely to be approved by the new government .
It is assumed that the democrats will develop federal programmes that will cover low-income children and adults, which are the groups that insurers often contract to direct via private Medicaid plans.
Recent research has revealed that the health insurance industry’s revenue could actually increase with a small decline in profit margins. H. Edward Hanway, chief executive of Cigna Corp said: “We do see opportunity. I think it’s also fair to say we expect some increasing regulation. We’re very focused on being an active voice at the table and talking about what kind of reform makes sense.”
Business groups have already given their support to the health reforms, although agreement on how to pay for expanded health coverage may prove difficult for the new president and congress .