Insurers' new reality: More for care, less profit

Beginning on January 1, insurance companies will have to spend between 80 to 85 percent of the premiums they collect on medical care -- an allotment known as the "medical loss ratio". Insurers believe the deadline is much too soon for such a policy change and would rather see a phase-in approach to implementing the rule in 2014. The concern is that small insurers will be forced to exit the market, leading to increased market control by the big insurance companies.

Competition with small businesses will take a hit. I don't believe the policy will do well to stimulate local economies. Medical care will see increased revenue, however, with the new health care reform, the health care industry will not be the one struggling.