The hottest Insurance Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Finance Topics

Recession Tug-of-War: Downside versus Bright Side

Risk Musings • 401 implied HN points • 29 Jul 23
💰 Finance Insurance
  1. The US economy faces challenges like high interest rates, commercial real estate vacancies, inflation, and climate change.
  2. Despite challenges, positive factors like AI, consumer demand, residential real estate, and labor strength are helping the economy remain resilient.
  3. The tug-of-war between downside risks and bright side factors will determine the economic outcome in the short, medium, and long terms.

Nexus Mutual (Part 2) - Valuation

DeFi Education • 459 implied HN points • 01 Oct 21
🔮 Crypto Insurance
  1. Nexus Mutual is getting attention as more big investors start to enter the market. They might want insurance, which could help Nexus grow.
  2. Many regular investors might not see the need for insurance, but larger funds handling over $200 million will likely feel it's essential.
  3. The demand for insurance in the DeFi space is expected to rise, especially with institutional money looking for security in their investments.

Why US Health Insurance Companies are Hated

Erik Examines • 89 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. People in the U.S. often face a tough experience with health insurance companies, which frequently deny care instead of helping patients. This differs a lot from the experiences in countries with socialized healthcare systems like Norway.
  2. For-profit health insurance companies prioritize their profits over patient care. This leads to a system where they often refuse necessary treatments, pushing patients into stressful battles just to receive care that should be available to them.
  3. Health insurance companies in the U.S. have little incentive to promote preventative care because they risk losing patients. In contrast, public health systems are designed to encourage preventive care, as healthier citizens reduce overall costs.

A CLOSER LOOK: The Mid Year Earnings of 7 Big For-Profit Insurance Companies

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 219 implied HN points • 16 Aug 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. The largest for-profit insurance companies made $43.8 billion in profits and had $620.6 billion in revenue, mostly from taxpayer money. This shows how much they benefit financially from government programs.
  2. Three major insurers control 80% of the pharmacy benefit market. This means they have a huge influence over how prescription medications are managed and priced.
  3. A large number of Americans are underinsured, with 43.4% lacking sufficient coverage. This highlights a growing issue in healthcare, where many people struggle to afford medical care despite having insurance.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:

Interested in the U.S. health care system? Here's what you need to know going into 2023.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 139 implied HN points • 12 Jan 23
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) are under scrutiny in Congress, with both political parties examining their roles in rising healthcare costs. It's important for patient advocates to educate lawmakers on the real impacts of PBMs.
  2. Health insurance benefits have been decreasing over the years, making care less affordable for many Americans, especially women. People are paying higher premiums but getting less coverage now than in the past.
  3. Rural areas face significant challenges in accessing healthcare, especially with transportation. Lack of options for medical transport can make it hard for patients in these regions to attend necessary appointments.

NEW: Rep. Khanna, Rep. Pocan and I go after Medicare Advantage in The Nation

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 139 implied HN points • 28 Dec 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Insurance
  1. Medicare Advantage plans are designed to benefit insurance company shareholders rather than patients. This means they may prioritize profit over providing quality care.
  2. Patients on Medicare Advantage often need prior approval from insurers before getting treatment. This can delay care and make it harder to get necessary services.
  3. Real Medicare allows patients to see almost any doctor or hospital without needing referrals. In contrast, Medicare Advantage plans have stricter networks that can limit choices.

Dr. Oz wants to force Pennsylvania seniors into Wall Street-run health insurance plans

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 179 implied HN points • 18 Aug 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Insurance
  1. Dr. Oz wants to push seniors in Pennsylvania into private health insurance plans that may cost them more than traditional Medicare. These private plans can limit their choices for doctors and hospitals.
  2. If this change happens, Dr. Oz could benefit financially because he owns a lot of stock in a big company that runs these plans. It would make him richer while seniors may end up with less coverage.
  3. Many seniors prefer sticking with original Medicare and avoid these private plans, but changes could force them to switch. This could lead to a lot of taxpayer money being spent without good coverage.

What I’m reading in health care this week.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 119 implied HN points • 19 Jan 23
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. Restaurant workers' money is being used for lobbying instead of improving their wages and healthcare. This is hurting low-wage workers who really need better support.
  2. More seniors are signing up for Medicare Advantage plans, which may not be as beneficial as they seem. It's important for legislators and the public to be cautious about these private plans.
  3. The process for getting medical approvals is becoming a huge hassle for doctors and patients. There are calls for reforms to make it easier and less burdensome to access necessary healthcare services.

While UnitedHealth reports $24 Billion in profits, Americans faced 200% increases in out-of-pockets over last decade

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 259 implied HN points • 21 Jan 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. UnitedHealth made a record profit of $24 billion, which is the highest ever for any U.S. insurer. This raises concerns about how the company is managing its resources while also charging customers more.
  2. Americans have seen their healthcare costs skyrocket, with out-of-pocket expenses increasing by 200% over the last decade. This means people are paying much more for healthcare, even when they have insurance.
  3. Health insurance premiums and deductibles now take a larger share of people's incomes, affecting families in many states. Many insured people are still struggling to afford care due to higher costs.

An assassin for our time (PART ONE)

Unreported Truths • 66 implied HN points • 10 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Insurance
  1. Luigi Mangione, a young and seemingly privileged guy, has a dark side after allegedly killing a healthcare CEO. It shows that even those who seem to have it all can snap under pressure.
  2. The attack raises questions about the reasons behind such violence, making it clear that Mangione didn't seem to be part of a larger movement. His motives were likely personal rather than ideological.
  3. This incident highlights a troubling trend as Mangione could mark the rise of a new kind of domestic terrorism that's not tied to a specific group, but rather individual grievances that can lead to drastic actions.

WEEKLY BRIEFLY NOTED: For 2025-01-20 Mo

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 53 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Insurance
  1. Watching a video about the Bel Air Fire of 1961 can give you insight into historical events and their impacts. It's important to learn from past events to understand current issues better.
  2. Insurance costs for properties are changing and it's something to keep an eye on. Rising costs can affect how we plan our finances when it comes to home and property.
  3. Subscribing to informative newsletters can lead to valuable knowledge. Engaging with these types of content can help you stay updated and informed.

DON'T MISS: Rep. Schakowsky (D-IL) and I exposed Medicare Advantage in Newsweek

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 119 implied HN points • 16 Nov 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Insurance
  1. Medicare Advantage is designed to benefit insurance companies and their shareholders, often at the expense of actual patient care. It's important for seniors to understand how this program works and what alternatives are available.
  2. Many Americans are struggling with high out-of-pocket costs for healthcare, and there's a need for reform to reduce these financial burdens. Changes are necessary to ensure health insurance is more affordable.
  3. Engaging with policymakers from both political parties is crucial to make progress in healthcare reform. Discussions are ongoing about the need to improve Medicare and tackle issues caused by big insurance companies.

The Freedom of Freelancing

kleandata • 39 implied HN points • 29 Sep 23
💼 Business Insurance
  1. Freelancing offers flexibility in work hours and location.
  2. Analytics engineering work is well-suited for freelance contracts.
  3. Freelancing can lead to higher earning potential through diverse projects and multiple clients.

IT'S JUST SPIN: UnitedHealth Group touts out-of-pocket savings that patients will never see.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 159 implied HN points • 19 Jul 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. Only a small percentage of UnitedHealth policyholders will actually benefit from announced out-of-pocket savings, making the impact very limited.
  2. The company's marketing creates a misleading impression that many will save money, but most won't qualify for these benefits.
  3. UnitedHealth seems more focused on boosting profits and shareholder returns than on genuinely helping patients with affordable medications.

Americans (with insurance) can't afford their medical care. They're turning to GoFundMe.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 179 implied HN points • 19 Apr 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. Many Americans, even those with health insurance, are struggling to pay medical bills due to high deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. This has led some to seek help through platforms like GoFundMe.
  2. People with chronic conditions, like cancer, are especially at risk of financial troubles. Even after meeting their deductible, they often face new costs each year, making it difficult to afford necessary care.
  3. The issue of high medical costs can affect anyone, as most people will have a chronic condition at some point in their lives. It's a growing crisis that impacts both health and finances.

In Property Insurance, Climate Change is Everything

Equal Ventures • 19 implied HN points • 24 Jan 24
💰 Finance Insurance
  1. Insurers must adapt quickly to the impacts of climate change on property insurance, as changing weather patterns are leading to more natural catastrophe events and heavier losses.
  2. The property insurance market is experiencing shrinking margins, complex regulations, and increasing premiums due to climate change impacts, leading to carriers pulling back policies in high-risk areas.
  3. There is a need for more innovative approaches in underwriting and risk management, moving away from relying solely on historical zip code data and towards tailored risk assessment in the face of evolving weather risks.

Underwriter Certification of Nuclear Power, 2.0:

Gordian Knot News • 124 implied HN points • 16 Mar 24
💼 Business Insurance
  1. Regulation of hazardous activities requires finding a balance between safety and economy to prevent both excessive harm and economic burden.
  2. Certification Societies, like those for ocean transportation and high-pressure steam, play a crucial role in setting industry standards, inspecting compliance, and ensuring safety.
  3. Underwriter Certification for nuclear power leverages market competition, government oversight, and insurance to provide a feasible and safe regulatory system for nuclear energy.

The Price Anderson Suicide Pact

Gordian Knot News • 161 implied HN points • 08 Nov 23
💰 Finance Insurance
  1. In the US, the response to nuclear accidents is governed by the Price Anderson Act and American tort system
  2. The Secondary Financial Protection under Price Anderson can lead to mandatory post-casualty assessments on nuclear plants
  3. INPO, a self-regulation inspection service, influences the safety culture of nuclear plants by focusing on preventing costly accidents

How Big Insurance, PBMs, the FDA, Congress and AstraZeneca made me pay so much for my inhaler.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 139 implied HN points • 25 May 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. The cost of inhalers in the U.S. has been rising, mainly due to a lack of generic options and practices by insurance companies and manufacturers that keep prices high.
  2. Most inhalers approved since the 1980s are brand-name drugs, and companies use tactics like patent extensions to block generic versions, resulting in long periods of high costs.
  3. People can save money on medications by ordering from countries like Canada or New Zealand, where prices are often much lower and generics are more readily available.

Must-read for US employers and lawmakers: 43% of working adults are functionally uninsured

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 99 implied HN points • 05 Oct 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. 43% of working adults in the US have inadequate health insurance, making them functionally uninsured. This is a significant concern for many families.
  2. Costs are a big problem; 46% of people delayed or skipped medical care because they couldn't afford it, and many struggle with medical bills.
  3. Low-income individuals and people of color are more likely to be underinsured, facing bigger gaps in coverage and high out-of-pocket costs.

Benefits 2.0: Brokers as the Frontline of Benefits Innovation

Equal Ventures • 59 implied HN points • 07 Sep 22
💼 Business Insurance
  1. The benefits industry has evolved significantly to Benefits 2.0, where employers can offer more personalized and cost-effective benefits than before.
  2. Employers are increasingly turning to brokers as key partners in navigating the complex landscape of Benefits 2.0, creating opportunities for entrepreneurs and service providers.
  3. Key trends in Benefits 2.0 include the growth in self-funding, care navigation solutions proving ROI, and the expansion of fringe benefits like mental health and financial wellness.

As big insurance announces record profits, skyrocketing out-of-pockets (finally) take center stage.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 99 implied HN points • 01 Aug 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. Insurance companies are making big profits, but many families can't afford their healthcare costs. This is making people push for change.
  2. High out-of-pocket expenses, like deductibles, are making it hard for people to use their health insurance. They often avoid seeking care because of these costs.
  3. Voters are worried about rising healthcare costs, especially out-of-pocket payments, and they want to see candidates make this a priority.

Apollo's Web

Net Interest • 12 implied HN points • 18 Jul 25
💰 Finance Insurance
  1. Lockheed Martin transferred a large amount of pension obligations to Athene to reduce financial risk and focus on its main business.
  2. Athene, backed by Apollo Global Management, has rapidly grown its pension risk transfer business, sparking concerns about the safety of these arrangements for individuals.
  3. Some employees are worried that private equity's involvement in insurance may lead to higher risks and fewer protections for pension holders.

UnitedHealth Group has fewer private paying customers than in 2012, but its remaining customers are paying way more in premiums and deductibles

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 79 implied HN points • 18 Oct 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. UnitedHealth Group has fewer private customers than it did ten years ago, but the ones it has are paying significantly more in premiums and deductibles.
  2. The average family plan has become much more expensive, and employees are shouldering more of the costs than they used to.
  3. As insurance companies keep raising prices while offering less coverage, people are essentially paying more for fewer benefits over time.

#24: Insurance for AI: Easier Said than Done

Loeber on Substack • 40 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
💼 Business Insurance
  1. Insurance for AI risks is a complex topic due to the unpredictable nature of AI outputs, making it hard to find solid coverage options. Businesses want protection from costly mistakes by AI, but actual insurance products may be limited.
  2. The market for existing software error insurance is quite small, which raises questions about how large the market for AI error insurance could be. With many companies not even aware of current insurance options, it's a niche field.
  3. Insurers face challenges in accurately assessing AI risks due to information gaps and the rapid evolution of AI technology. This could lead to difficulties in creating effective insurance policies for AI applications.

SOCIALISM FOR THEM: 60% of Anthem’s 2021 revenue was subsidized by American taxpayers.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 119 implied HN points • 01 Feb 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Insurance
  1. Anthem, a major health insurance company, got 60% of its 2021 revenue from taxpayer money. This means a lot of their profits depend on government funding.
  2. While Anthem's profits have soared, many Americans are seeing higher health insurance deductibles and premiums that take up a big part of their budgets.
  3. Most of Anthem's recent growth comes from government programs like Medicaid and Medicare, rather than traditional health plans that people used to buy directly.

The FTC decided not to investigate PBM business practices. But there is a silver lining.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 99 implied HN points • 18 Feb 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. The FTC decided not to investigate pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs), but some commissioners are still concerned about rising out-of-pocket costs for patients at pharmacies. This is a positive sign for future inquiries about healthcare costs.
  2. Many people with insurance are struggling to afford their medications because of high deductibles and costs demanded by their insurers. This issue is causing serious financial problems for families.
  3. Three big companies control a large portion of the PBM market and are making significant profits while many insured Americans can't afford necessary medicines. The investigation should consider how these companies' practices affect patients.

Interested in health care? This is what I'm reading this week.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 79 implied HN points • 03 Jun 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. Senator Manchin is discussing a new version of the Build Back Better bill, which could cap Medicare drug costs for seniors. This change could help many older Americans save money on their medications.
  2. The Senate is also considering a telehealth 'Bill of Rights' to make mental health services easier to access. It’s important because many people struggle to get the mental health care they need due to insurance barriers.
  3. There's a trend of insurance companies providing care themselves, called 'pay-viders.' This can lead to higher profits for these companies, but it also raises questions about whether it helps patients receive better care.

Worst reasonable efforts

The Jolly Contrarian • 2 HN points • 14 Jun 24
💼 Business Insurance
  1. The concept of 'worst reasonable efforts' is a satirical take on the idea of performing at the minimal acceptable level in contracts and agreements.
  2. Many organizations, such as for-profit insurers, airlines, and rental companies, often operate on the premise of providing 'worst reasonable efforts' to customers.
  3. The prevalence of 'worst reasonable efforts' in modern society highlights the sacrifice of quality for scale and the acceptance of mediocrity in various aspects of life.

Despite a profitable 2021, expect higher deductibles and premiums in Aetna's health plans for 2022.

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 79 implied HN points • 15 Feb 22
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. Aetna's health plans will have higher deductibles and premiums in 2022, which can make healthcare more expensive for customers. Even though they made money in 2021, people will likely pay more out of pocket.
  2. Even with big profits last year, investors are worried about how CVS/Aetna will perform this year. They became anxious after the company slightly lowered its cash flow expectations, leading to a drop in stock prices.
  3. Enrollment in Aetna's health plans has declined over the years as premiums increased. Many companies are offering less coverage, forcing people to pay more themselves instead, while the company focuses on boosting investor profits.

Why You Should Join The Artificial Intelligence Underwriting Company

Why You Should Join • 2 implied HN points • 10 Nov 25
🕹 Technology Insurance
  1. AI systems need to earn trust to become widely adopted. This is because their unpredictable behavior can lead to serious problems, like giving bad advice or leaking sensitive information.
  2. The Artificial Intelligence Underwriting Company (AIUC) is creating standards and insurance for AI to help companies feel more secure when using these technologies. They offer a certification that includes audits and liability coverage.
  3. As businesses face more risks with AI, having a trust framework like AIUC's is essential. This helps streamline the adoption process by showing that safety and compliance are taken seriously.

Life with Crohn’s Disease is a Never-Ending Fight with Insurance Companies

JoeWrote • 44 implied HN points • 13 Feb 24
🏥 Health & Wellness Insurance
  1. Living with Crohn's Disease involves a continuous battle with insurance companies, making access to necessary healthcare challenging.
  2. The American healthcare system's bureaucracy and profit-driven approach create unnecessary burdens for individuals with chronic illnesses.
  3. Personal experiences highlight the flaws in the American healthcare system, emphasizing the need for reform towards universal healthcare coverage.

4 Key Trends Emerging from ITC

Equal Ventures • 19 implied HN points • 03 Oct 22
💼 Business Insurance
  1. Insurance startups are exploring opportunities beyond traditional insurance, including tech-enabled solutions and business development pathways.
  2. After a decline in valuation multiples, the interest in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the insurance industry is resurging.
  3. Focusing on climate risk is becoming a key priority for insurers, leading to changes in underwriting approaches and investment in climate-related initiatives.

“Pay Every Claim” Is Not a Viable Model for Any Health Insurance Company

I Might Be Wrong • 12 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. Health insurance companies can't pay every claim because it would be financially impossible for them. They need to manage costs to stay in business.
  2. Public anger towards insurance executives can stem from personal experiences with denied claims, but wishing harm on them is not a justified response.
  3. Understanding how insurance works is important; the system is complex, and blaming individuals doesn't address the underlying issues.

American Health Care

the rohn report • 39 implied HN points • 24 Jun 21
🏥 Health & Wellness Insurance
  1. Doctors often work for insurance companies, not solely for the patient's benefit. The focus is more on testing, diagnosing, and prescribing rather than providing empathetic care and support.
  2. The healthcare system can benefit from more humane and patient-centered approaches. Listening and empathizing with patients can play a significant role in healing.
  3. Integrating different healing modalities, like traditional Chinese medicine alongside conventional treatment, can lead to better outcomes and overall well-being.

Congress must cap increasingly lethal Medicare out-of-pocket requirements

HEALTH CARE un-covered • 39 implied HN points • 25 Oct 21
🏥 Health Politics Insurance
  1. Medicare costs are rising, making it harder for seniors to pay for care. Many people with Medicare can face high out-of-pocket expenses that lead to debt or avoiding necessary treatment.
  2. Congress should put a cap on out-of-pocket costs for Medicare. This could help seniors save money and get the care they need without falling deep into debt.
  3. Medicare Advantage plans often seem attractive, but they can have hidden costs that can be very high. Seniors need to be careful in choosing their plans to avoid surprises.