BASIC FACTS ABOUT REGISTERING A TRADEMARK Part 1 of 5 What is a Trademark? A trademark is either a word, phrase, symbol, or design, or combination of words, phrases, symbols or...

Today, an insurance professional must be an information specialist. Access to information can be vital in all specialized areas of insurance. Every agency has numerous books, both those published professionally and those published as company manuals and promotional materials, which are reference tools enabling more effective decisions. But where are the materials when you need them? Ideally, in a library using a database program and an efficient cataloging system.

The conference report for H.R. 3103, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996, provides for changes in the private heath insurance market. The bill guarantees the availability of private heath insurance coverage for certain groups and restricts the use of preexisting condition restrictions. Renewal of coverage will be guaranteed with limited exceptions. Although H.R. 3103 creates federal standards for insurers, health maintenance organizations (HMOs), and employers who self-insure, the bill permits substantial state flexibility for compliance. This report examines the major features of H.R. 3103 regarding heath insurance.