Monthly Archives: April 2019

Austin-Based Texas Outdoor Lighting Receives Four Awards from the Distinguished Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals

April 29, 2019 – –

Austin, TX – Texas Outdoor Lighting, the go-to resource for outdoor lighting solutions in Central Texas, won four prestigious awards from the Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals (AOLP) for an array of outdoor lighting designs completed in 2018. From lighting a man cave to a large residence, Texas Outdoor Lighting continues to be a the standard of professional outdoor lighting in Central Texas and beyond.

“Outdoor lighting transforms any space from dark and unknown to warm and inviting,” says founder and lead designer of Texas Outdoor Lighting, Joel Mayor. “We strive to provide the highest quality, custom-lighting services and products for installations, homes and businesses across Texas. These awards are a reflection of our dedication and mission, and our entire Texas Outdoor Lighting team is honored for the recognition from the AOLP.”

Texas Outdoor Lighting was awarded for the following outdoor lighting projects: Award of Merit for Feature-Focused Lighting Project for the art-installation, StickWorks, in Pease Park in Austin, Award of Merit for Commercial Lighting Project in Horseshoe Bay Resort, Award of Merit for Residential Large Lighting Project at Barker Estate in Austin, and Award of Merit for Outdoor Living Lighting Project for a man cave in Austin.

The annual Association of Outdoor Lighting Professionals Expo and Convention, opens voting to association members and industry professionals and that vote accounts for 50 percent. AOLP also establishes a panel of five industry experts who deliberate and count for the other 50 percent of the vote.

“Through truly listening to our customers’ needs, we are able to work hand-in-hand with them to achieve the overall aesthetic they are looking for. We strive for a 100 percent customer satisfaction and to make their properties beautiful, safe and highlight the hard work that went into making their home or business,” said Beth Mayor, co-founder of Texas Outdoor Lighting.

To see pictures of the award-winning Texas Outdoor Lighting projects and learn more, visit their blog.

About Texas Outdoor Lighting:

Texas Outdoor Lighting was founded in 2007 by Joel & Beth Mayor. Using an old blue Saturn sedan as their company vehicle, the company had very humble beginnings working anywhere they could around Central Texas. Fast forward 10 years and they now have eight employees and a fleet of commercial vehicles and trailers to install and service projects all over the Lone Star State. They have done their best to maintain their integrity, honesty, top-notch customer service and best looking lighting designs over the years, no matter if it’s a $3000 install or a $300,000 estate project. Learn more at www.texasoutdoorlighting.com, friend them on Facebook and follow them on Instagram @texasoutdoorlighting.

Contact:

Emily Kealey, 500 Rockets

emily@500rockets.io

C: 512-638-1416

###

For more information about Texas Outdoor Lighting, contact the company here:

Texas Outdoor Lighting
Joel Mayor
512.504.3030
info@texasoutdoorlighting.com
3267 Bee Caves Rd. Ste 107 #171
Austin, TX 78746

ReleaseID: 60027521

CRSMT Director Of Education Shares Thoughts On Cortiva Institute Closures

April 29, 2019 – – In the newest entry of the Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy’s (CRSMT) blog, Director of Education at CRSMT, Beverly Giroud, discusses the closure of the Cortiva Institute, alongside other aspects regarding what the closure signifies for the future of massage therapy education. The blog can be found at https://crsmt.com/beverley-giroud-discusses-cortiva-institute-closing-and-the-future-of-massage-therapy-education/.

As a massage therapy graduate from a well-established and highly regarded massage therapy school, Giroud states that she has always strived to model, at CRSMT, the excellence that she experienced as an alumni of the institution. In the blog entry, she attributes the closing of the Cortiva Institute to a consequence of the new challenges that the United States’ shifting economy has produced.

According to Giroud, massage therapy schools across the nation have experienced a growing decrease in enrollments during recent years. While this has led to the closure of the Cortiva Institute, it has also similarly affected many other massage therapy schools, negatively influencing the industry as a whole. This does not only affect the students who have to find another school to continue their studies, but also causes various leaders in the industry to question their own longevity.

The Cortiva Institute closure occurs as a result of the dwindling and continued decline of the enrollment and graduate numbers across the nation. This is by no means a new phenomenon as, for the past years, the number of new students and graduates has been declining at a steady pace. Given that schools now have to face the imminent prospect of closure, this gives them a few distinct choices: to change and adapt to the demands of the industry, or to cease their activities altogether.

In the company’s blog, Giroud states that even considering the dire situation that has been affecting the massage therapy education industry, “Employers are in need of competent and ethical practitioners.” Despite the decrease in student enrollment, there is still a growing demand for qualified personnel to fill out existing job opportunities.

Giroud continues, “It is my hope that future students of massage therapy will enjoy a higher quality of education. The schools that survive this trend will be those who take the opportunity to re-examine their business and educational practices in order to continue to increase enrollment numbers and provide highly qualified massage therapists to meet industry demand.”

However, it is not all bad news in the massage therapy education industry. As the Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy itself demonstrates, there is still a place for massage therapy schools in the industry. This is illustrated by the fact that, in the next month, they will be graduating their largest class yet for the program, with 28 students. The school has high expectations that these students will go on to create and fulfill job opportunities across the nation.

The Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy owes their success to their staff, says Giroud, explaining that, “Over the years, our team at CRSMT has been mindfully growing, and adjusting our program with the goals of professional and ethical excellence, and providing a fulfilling study abroad student experience.” She continues, “We have been able to deliver a superb education within a unique tropical setting and cultural experience while maintaining the high standards that we believe in. I truly feel that has led to our successful enrollments, retention, and pass rates.”

The Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy, remain positive, despite the adversities framed by the context of the nationwide trend. The staff of CRSMT place their trust in staying true to their course and continuing to make their program a solid and prudent choice for prospective students. In sight of the recent closure of the Cortiva Institute, the Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy is the best option available for students who wish to get the best education available in massage therapy.

Those interested in pursuing the school’s educational services may contact Director of Admissions, Tammy McGee, of the Costa Rica School of Massage Therapy via the form found here: https://www.beachmassageschool.com/cortiva-closing/. The school may also be reached through their website and social media platforms.

###

For more information about Costa Rica School Of Massage Therapy, contact the company here:

Costa Rica School Of Massage Therapy
Tammy McGee
1-800-770-9893 ext 1
info@crsmt.com
Costado norte de la plaza de deportes
Samara, Nicoya 50205, GTE
Costa Rica

ReleaseID: 60027469

Swiftbonds Announces Performance Bond Services In Virginia

April 29, 2019 – – Swiftbonds LLC, announces it is now offering performance bonds in the state of Virginia for its clients. The company is a leading provider of surety bonds for the construction industry in the US and is licensed in all fifty states. Swiftbonds is a surety brokerage and is familiar with the construction industry in Virginia and offers contractors and businesses all ranges of performance bonds as well as other types of surety. Read full source article here: https://swiftbonds.com/news/virginia-performance-bond-services-now-available/.

Surety Performance Bonds are referred to as a three-party agreement between the principal, the obliged and the surety company. The principal is the employer or company that will carry out the work detailed in the contract and the obliged, or obligee, is referred to as the project owner. Construction companies will almost always be required by law to get a performance bond when chosen for a public project. The government entity (federal, state or municipality) requires a construction company to get a host of bonds before they start work on a particular project. The bond will guarantee that the subcontractors and other workers would be paid even if the contractor defaults. The contractor covers the losses, but once they reached their limit, the duty will fall to the surety company.

Swiftbonds works with surety bond underwriters in Virginia, as well as the bigger, national surety underwriting companies. It should be noted that all city/state public works projects and private projects need to have contract surety bonds. The first step for getting such a bond is the bid bond, which is normally 5 to 10 percent of the project. Swiftbonds is capable of working within time constraints to have the bonds issued as fast as possible in order for contractors to be able to win and accept projects.

If the bid on a contract is won, a performance bond is provided to guarantee that a project will be completed according to the specifications and plans spelled out in the contract. In the event that the project is not completed or if it has been determined as being unacceptable, it is the performance bond that will allow the surety bond company to hire a contractor to complete the project properly or settle for damages. Performance bonds can protect both the project and the contractor. When there is a performance bond, the client can file claim on the bond in case the contractor fails to finish the project. If the contractor is unable to complete the project because of financial losses or bankruptcy, the company that issued the surety bond pays the client for any losses.

Meanwhile, Swiftbonds can also help with other bonds, such as the payment bond and the SBA bond. Payment bonds are used to guarantee that unpaid bills will be paid up to the bond amount. This is needed for public projects amounting to more than $25,000. The SBA bond can help contractors who have a difficult time getting a performance bond or a bid bond.

Gary Eastman, managing director and senior bond specialist of Swiftbonds said: “We are pleased to be offering this performance bond service to our clients in Virginia. State licensing and regulations differ and we are now fully compliant and licensed within the state.”

Swiftbonds is committed to offering a personalized approach when creating policies for its clients. Those who want to know more about the services available from Swiftbonds can visit the company website here: https://swiftbonds.com/performance-bond/virginia/.

For other surety bond news see https://www.pressadvantage.com/story/27199-bid-bond-service-now-being-offered-in-texas-by-swiftbonds.

###

For more information about Swiftbonds, contact the company here:

Swiftbonds
Gary Eastman
913-214-8344
gary@swiftbonds.com
4901 W. 136th Street #250
Leawood, KS 66224

ReleaseID: 60027525

A Vancouver Recruitment Company Achieves Circle of Excellence Status

April 29, 2019 – – Vancouver, Wash. – Express Employment Professionals, a leading Vancouver recruitment company, is proud to announce that they have recently been named a recipient of the prestigious Circle of Excellence award. This recognition is awarded to select Express offices for their annual performance in assisting local businesses and job seekers.

Franchise Manager Krista DiGiacomo expressed her gratitude to the local community by stating, “We are so proud to support the Clark County community by helping people find meaningful work and helping companies find stellar employees.”

Each year, various Express franchises are granted various Circle of Excellence awards based on their performance, participation and commitment to service. The Express Vancouver team has been committed to providing job seekers and employers throughout the Clark County area with the best workforce solutions to meet both short-term and long-term goals for individuals and businesses alike.

As a top Vancouver employment company, it’s crucial for Express to chase achieving Circle of Excellence status on a yearly basis. The steps that it takes to be awarded are beneficial for franchisees looking to grow and expand their business. Following-suit and meeting each qualification for the Express Vancouver team was important for their clients and associates as well, as it ensures the level of customer service is consistently above and beyond expectations.

The Express Vancouver office serves the Vancouver, Ridgefield, Camas, Washougal, Battle Ground and La Center areas with temporary help and direct hire employees in a variety of fields, including administrative, commercial and professional staffing. The Vancouver office, located at 2612 NE 114th Ave, Vancouver, WA 98684, is currently accepting applications. Local businesses and job seekers can stop by the office, call (360) 883-3600 or visit online at www.expresspros.com/VancouverWA.

###

For more information about Express Employment Professionals – Vancouver, WA, contact the company here:

Express Employment Professionals – Vancouver, WA
Eric Schubert
(360) 883-3600
Jobs.VancouverWA@ExpressPros.com
2612 NE 114th Ave #2
Vancouver, WA 98684

ReleaseID: 60027524

Austin-Based Texas Outdoor Lighting Remembers the Alamo Through a Custom-Lighting Design Fit For A Symbol of Texas Pride

April 29, 2019 – –

On the historic April anniversary, Texas Outdoor Lighting celebrates its contribution to illuminating a piece of history.

Austin, TX – On April 21, 1836 in San Jacinto, around 800 Texans including a state icon, Sam Houston, defeated the Mexican forces of General Santa Anna and shouted the now famous: “Remember the Alamo”. This victory not only earned Texans their independence, but became a battle cry and source of pride for Texans to this day. When Texas Outdoor Lighting was approached to light such a beacon of freedom and pride for their home state, they knew it had to be one-of-a-kind and honor this sacred emblem beloved by so many.

“We took on the task of lighting the Alamo very seriously,” says founder and lead designer of Texas Outdoor Lighting, Joel Mayor. “We are so fortunate to have been trusted to work on such a beautiful piece of history. We all felt very humbled by this experience knowing the sacred ground we stood on. We worked hand-in-hand with the Alamo team to ensure we preserved every piece of the grounds while completing the mission of giving it better lighting and visibility at night for visitors around the world.”

The five-acre project in downtown San Antonio took more than 700 lights to illuminate. All work was completed at night as to not interfere with the visiting day traffic. Texas Outdoor Lighting also worked side-by-side with an historian in case anything important was exhumed during the install. While there were many unique features that were added to The Alamo to bring it to life in the evening hours, the Texas Outdoor Lighting team preserved and elevated the integrity and unique history of the structure.

“Working with the professional sales and installation team at Texas Outdoor Lighting on this project was rewarding and always exciting,” says Kaye Tucker from The Alamo. “As lights were added during each phase of the project, the complex evolved into a more impressive space for visitors around the world to appreciate and enjoy each evening, while continuing to honor and respect a place where men gave their lives for liberty. We could not have asked for a more positive experience or stunning results.”

To learn more and see pictures, visit its website.

About Texas Outdoor Lighting:

Texas Outdoor Lighting was founded in 2007 by Joel & Beth Mayor. Using an old blue Saturn sedan as our company vehicle, the company had very humble beginnings working anywhere they could around Central Texas. Fast forward ten years and they now have eight employees and a fleet of commercial vehicles and trailers to install and service projects all over the Lone Star State. They have done their best to maintain their integrity, honesty, top-notch customer service and best looking lighting designs over the years, no matter if it’s a $3000 install or a $300,000 estate project. Learn more at www.texasoutdoorlighting.com, friend them on Facebook and follow them on Instagram @texasoutdoorlighting.

Contact:

Emily Kealey, 500 Rockets

emily@500rockets.io

C: 512-638-1416

###

For more information about Texas Outdoor Lighting, contact the company here:

Texas Outdoor Lighting
Joel Mayor
512.504.3030
info@texasoutdoorlighting.com
3267 Bee Caves Rd. Ste 107 #171
Austin, TX 78746

ReleaseID: 60027519

TNL Announces A Reliable Way To Get Money In An Emergency

April 29, 2019 – – The Net Lender recently announced that the in-house computer software to process phone call times is now faster. Casey Ryback, manager of operations, has explained that this software will dramatically cut wait times.

“This issue,” he explained, “is that with the demand of holiday bills, the government shutdown, and other issues it is extremely important that we be able to serve customers as quickly and as effectively as possible. “There is no doubt in my mind that the new phone system and processing software we have been working on will help us continue to enhance business and serve customers even better.”

For people new to The Net Lender the business check out the Press Advantage Page. Here you will find tons of info about The Net Lender and how it works.

If an individual runs into a financial emergency and has drained their emergency account, then it is important for a person to be prepared for the situation and to have a backup plan. Contacting TNL may be one option available.

Many people ask how the Net Lender helps people. In today’s environment many people are struggling to make ends meet, and the government shutdown has hurt a lot of people. While a lot of people are benefiting from high stock market prices and high real estate prices, the flip side is that some people can’t afford to get housing in many parts of the country. Furthermore, people who want to save for retirement are finding it difficult to get money.

The software will help people in other ways as well. “The main thing is time, ” Ryback states. “Time is everything. If a person has a rent or mortgage payment due, or a funeral to pay for, or a medical bill, the difference between getting money in 2 days vs 4 or 5 can be huge.” The goal, Ryeback states, is “To streamline this process as much as possible so people can get funds for whatever is needed as quickly and as efficiently as possible.”

If someone needs money, do not hesitate to make a toll free call today to: 888-663-7074. Generally, to qualify for assistance a person will need a vehicle that has a free and clean title, a vehicle under 200,000 miles, proof of vehicular insurance, proof of income of at least $1,200 a month, and identification.

Learn more by visiting the website: https://www.thenetlender.com/locations/.

California has become a very expensive state to live in. With some of the highest taxes in the country, least affordable housing, and traffic congestion many people are leaving the state to go to Colorado, Arizona, Oregon, or Washington. California is a beautiful state, but with tech companies like Facebook, San Francisco, Lyft, and Uber having high paying jobs this drives up the cost of housing for everyone.

###

For more information about The Net Lender Locations, contact the company here:

The Net Lender Locations
(888) 663-7074
n/a

ReleaseID: 60025447

Clarke T Goset Heads Up Minnesota Real Estate Appraisal Services

April 29, 2019 – – Clark T. Goset, a commercial real estate appraiser in Roseville, Minnesota states that he and his firm are currently offering services professional property appraisal services for those in Minneapolis and the surrounding areas, backed with decades of experience.

Goset says, “As a team, we have more than 40 years of experience in appraising multi-family residences, as well as industrial and commercial properties. We are certain that we can provide our clients with the personalized service that they want and need.”

Goset himself has years of experience in his field and a portfolio that boasts more than 10,000 appraisals. His client list includes hundreds of local companies. Goset is a certified real estate valuation expert witness for federal as well as state and county court testimonies.

Clarke T. Goset graduated from the University of Hawaii School of Business before working in the Twin Cities as an independent real estate appraiser. His current licenses include General Real Property Appraisals certification for any type of property.

“I am beyond pleased to be bringing my own years of experience to clients in and around the Twin Cities region,” says Goset. “Our firm has proven, over the years, that we offer an unbiased and impartial appraisal for any type of property. We are looking forward to assisting those in the area with their industrial, residential or commercial appraisal needs.”

Goset adds that he and his entire team work to ensure that every single client is satisfied with their appraisal. He states that they strive to be the top real estate appraisal firm in Minneapolis and surrounding areas, and clients believe that they are off to a good start. Multiple clients have praised the team for their attention to detail and the fact that they provide unbiased appraisals for every job.

Goset states that they can provide appraisals for any property type and size, from industrial complexes to city properties. The firm has, over their years in business, provided a multitude of appraisals for clients with a variety of real estate properties. Goset adds that the firm can provide reports that include summary reports, as well as self-contained and complete reports.

Experts agree that real estate professionals will always be in need. This includes appraisal services. Many cities of late have experienced massive growth with new complexes for residential living as well as commercial office and retail space. Goset states that any development such as these needs an experienced appraiser in order to ensure that all of the legalities are done properly. He adds that anyone in the area that is considering a purchasing a new space can contact the company to learn more about the process for the appraisal.

Those who are interested in learning more can visit Minnesota Real Estate Appraisal Services on their official company website. The website offers more information about the firm’s experience in their field and how they can help to ensure that all of their clients receive the highest possible level of service. Goset states that it has always been his goal to ensure that the firm’s clients feel as if they received personalized service when working with him and his team.

The company has performed hundreds of appraisals for industrial and commercial properties in and around the Twin Cities region. Goset states that this experience helps to ensure that they can meet all of the specific needs of each of their clients.

Those in need of a commercial or industrial property appraisal can visit the firm’s website to learn more about the process or to gain direct contact information for phone or email. More information about the firm’s team, as well as a direct contact form for those who wish to contact the firm through their website can also be found on the site. Location information, maps and general information about commercial appraisals is also available. Goset states that those in need of a property appraisal can contact them through the online form or call or email the firm today to learn more.

###

For more information about Minnesota Real Estate Appraisal Services, contact the company here:

Minnesota Real Estate Appraisal Services
Clark Goset
(612) 618-0917
cgoset@reappraisalsmn.com
2212 Midland View Ct N, Roseville, MN 55113

ReleaseID: 60027360

Kaur Wills Bristol Announces New Estate Planning Service

April 29, 2019 – – Bristol, UK based, Kaur Wills Bristol company recently announced the launch of their new estate planning Bristol service. They offer their clients a bespoke solution to ensure the protection and safety of their wealth against avoidable taxation. The company’s goal is to ensure that the process of inheriting family wealth occurs as smoothly as possible.

A common concern that clients have as they approach the later stages of their lives is what would become of loved ones after they have passed away. As they try to figure out the best methods of looking after the family they leave behind, the first option that presents itself is usually a will. While many are aware that it is important to write a will—as without one, no one would know about the deceased’s final wishes or how to carry them out—neglecting this step also leaves the relevant estate and assets open to taxation.

Furthermore, the lack of a will also enables the potential exploitation of a client’s assets by relatives who may be entitled to a part of said assets, against the deceased’s wishes. Even if the client does not possess much wealth, and an estate plan may not be a top priority, taking the time to write a simple will gives them an opportunity to consider what should happen to their assets in the event they pass on.

Many people hold the assumption that a will is the only measure they need to take in order to ensure that their loved ones receive all the wealth that is left behind. While having a will, as well as someone to execute it (which could be a trusted friend or relative) can help ease this process, it does not guarantee that everything will happen as intended.

With their new estate planning service in Bristol, Kaur Wills Bristol offers the best complement to their clients’ final wishes, as a will alone may not be enough to ensure that their family is completely protected from all harm in their time of need. Retaining a properly structured estate plan also helps them avoid, or reduce, the amount of inheritance tax that has to be paid by the benefactors of the estate.

The benefits to estate planning, in addition to other preparations (such as arranging a will that is free of ambiguity), include providing a clear understanding and outline of the deceased’s wishes, making funeral plans for the deceased, and providing a clear and comprehensive picture of their assets. Estate planning is the best practice to ensure that, when the time comes, an executor applying for probate will have fewer issues to contend with as there is a clear, detailed plan regarding how the estate should be distributed in the event of their demise.

An estate plan also serves the purpose of protecting their family and any other beneficiaries from the impact of inheritance tax. When adequate preventions have not been made in advance, inheritance tax can come as an unwelcome surprise for the deceased’s family members. However, there are ways they can protect their assets and, provided that proper preparations were made far enough in advance, the deceased’s family may be able to mitigate or eliminate the inheritance tax altogether.

Kaur Wills Bristol is committed to providing clear advice for individuals and their families who are considering their later life finances and the protection of their family wealth. It is in times of need that families should be together, and easing their worries regarding assets helps ensure that everything is carried out as smoothly as possible.

The company’s website has many different resources meant to help their clients understand how vital it is that they make proper preparations for the events of their demise. A representative of Kaur Wills Bristol stated, “Our website is an important tool for our clients, as it is through there that we have set out to explain how to prepare your financial affairs, and the importance of it in order to achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family after you pass away.”

Those interested in contracting Kaur Wills Bristol’s services may contact Harvinder Kaur, or reach out through the company’s website. The firm can also be reached through their social media platforms.

###

For more information about Kaur Wills Bristol, contact the company here:

Kaur Wills Bristol
Harvinder Kaur
08444142020
hello@KaurWills.co.uk
Kaur Wills Bristol
16 The Yard
Bristol
BS2 9YR

ReleaseID: 60027422

Larry Bird Autograph Signing Announced by Powers Sports Memorabilia

April 29, 2019 – – Powers Sports Memorabilia has announced that they will be taking part in a private Larry Bird autograph signing on May 13, 2019. All items will come with Larry Bird’s official authenticity hologram. The autograph signing is courtesy of SSM. Preorder pricing is available and valid until May 7, 2019. The send-in deadline for all items that customers would like to be signed is also May 7th. It should be noted that customers can buy memorabilia from Powers Sports Memorabilia, or they can send their own items for autograph signing. The Larry Bird autograph signing with Powers Sports Memorabilia is private and therefore not open to the public.

Powers Sports Memorabilia owner Matt Powers says, “We are honored to work with a living legend like Larry Bird. Along with Magic Johnson, Bird was one of the pioneers of ushering the NBA to the next level. Here is a great opportunity to get some signed memorabilia from a true Hall-of-Famer.”

Matt is a true sports fanatic and loves interacting with his customers over any sports-related topic. A quick visit to the Powers Sports Memorabilia Facebook page will confirm that not only is Powers Sports a great place for memorabilia, but also somewhere a true sports fan can feel comfortable discussing the teams and players they love.

For many years now, Powers Sports Memorabilia has been providing sports fans around the country with excellent signed merchandise, and some tips and tricks for finding the best memorabilia on the market through the Powers Sports Memorabilia YouTube channel.

The online store has merchandise from all different types of sports, not just the NBA. Fans of the MLB, NFL, NHL, UFC, WWE, and even the MLS and Euro Soccer Leagues can find rare signed and unsigned memorabilia at Powers Sports.

Fans looking to participate in the Larry Bird signing should be reminded that May 7this the cutoff date for any sports memorabilia they want autographed. Don’t miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity, the company says.

###

For more information about Powers Sports Memorabilia, contact the company here:

Powers Sports Memorabilia
Matt Powers
(650) 888-7915
matt@powerssportsmemorabilia.com
Powers Sports Memorabilia
923 NE Woods Chapel Rd, Suite 203
Lee’s Summit, MO 64064

ReleaseID: 60027390

Serenity Wellness Foundation of Quincy’s Report Finds That States Are Ignoring ACA Requirements To Cover Addiction Treatment

April 29, 2019 – – Patients Cannot Access Full Range Of Critical Treatment Services

A report by Serenity Wellness Foundation of Quincy reveals that insurance plans nationwide are not covering the necessary services for people with addiction. This comprehensive review of the addiction benefits offered in the current Essential Health Benefits (EHB) benchmark plans found that none of the plans are adequate and over two-thirds violate the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

“Our findings reveal that people with addiction may not be receiving effective treatment because insurance plans aren’t covering the full range of evidence-based care,” said Serenity Wellness Foundation of Quincy. “For example, our review did not find a single state that covers all of the approved medications used to treat opioid addiction.”

The EHB benchmark plans determine the specific addiction benefits available to the 12.7 million people who are insured under ACA plans. The ACA requires plans to cover substance use disorder services, which are designated as an EHB. The ACA also requires that these services be provided at parity, meaning they are equal or comparable to medical and surgical benefits. But the ACA does not identify which benefits should be covered; instead, each state chooses an EHB benchmark plan to determine which addiction benefits must be covered by the ACA plans sold in that state.

Historically, insurance coverage for addiction has been insufficient. When people cannot access effective treatment, it can lead to disability, premature death, and a range of other costly health and social consequences. Conversely, effective treatment has been shown to not only save lives, but also reduce health care costs and decrease drug-related crimes.

“We are still a long way from treating addiction like a disease,” said Serenity Wellness Foundation of Quincy. “Insurers are still not providing the same level of benefits for addiction treatment and services as they do for medical or surgical care. The absence of sufficient coverage for medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction is particularly alarming given the number of people dying or suffering on a daily basis. This kind of health care discrimination would never be tolerated during an epidemic for any other life-threatening disease.”

The report calls on states and insurers to revise their plans to comply with the law and cover the full range of effective addiction treatments. Currently, there is no penalty for states or insurance plans that are not complying with the law, which means that unless there are significant changes to the plans, those living with addiction will continue to be denied access to effective treatments.

###

For more information about Serenity Wellness Foundation of Quincy, contact the company here:

Serenity Wellness Foundation of Quincy
617-404-1940
Quincy, MA 02170

ReleaseID: 60027520