Survey finds that few Americans are familiar with upcoming health care reform changes

Many Americans are confused about the details and timing of health care reforms, according to a new survey released today by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Only 14 percent of 1,000 representative American adults surveyed by phone could identify Sept. 23 as the start date for major reform provisions. They were given a choice of four dates.

Interestingly, 72 percent knew that many plans will no longer be able to exclude children with pre-existing conditions. Nearly as many -- 70 percent -- knew that parents will generally be able to keep their adult children on the parent's health plan until age 26. (There are exceptions, such as grandfathered plans.)

There are, however, some significant misperceptions out there, judging by the survey results. Half of the respondents thought tht employers with less than 50 workers will have to offer coverage to employees under the new law. In reality, those small companies will NOT be required to do so.

For a timeline of what happens when in health care reform, click here.