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Creation of a Connector to Purchase Coverage
In 2006, Massachusetts policymakers enacted a far-reaching health reform plan, creating what is known as the Massachusetts health insurance "connector," along with other reforms. Now many policymakers, both in Congress and in other states, are exploring whether the connector concept is an effective means of reducing the number of uninsured Americans. NAHU believes that we need to carefully consider whether or not a national exchange is necessary in light of proposed market reforms. Further, given the diverse makeup of the United States, we question whether consumers wouldn't be better served with new federal market protections implemented at the state level. If Congress does decide to pursue the idea of an exchange, it is critical that exchanges be state-based and structured in such a way they do not damage or eliminate the traditional private insurance marketplace. They also must ensure consumer access to licensed agents and brokers. NAIC Testimony on Implementation of State-Based Exchanges NAHU provided testimony to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners on the implementation of state-based exchanges created by any potential federal health reform legislation.. The Role of Health Insurance Agents, Brokers and Consultants in Any Health Insurance "Exchange" This June 2009 white paper by NAHU tells how agents and brokers will be needed more than ever to serve as counselors and advocates for American consumers if an "exchange" is a component of federal health reform legislation. NAHU's Issue Summary on Exchanges This paper outlines NAHU's key talking points on the exchange issue. Problems with the Exchange Structure in the Senate Bill This one-pager, prepared by Blue Cross Blue Shield of America, examines issues with the exchange structure as currently outlined in the Senate bill. Hot Issue: Connectors This publication addressed NAHU's overview of state-level connector activity. A follow-up issue is available here. Connector Study This independent academic research study questions the legal and economic issues associate with state-level health insurance connector or exchange proposals. The Smart Connector White Paper NAHU's white paper outlines the state-level connector proposals. The Smart Connector Alternative This paper summarizes how a connector could be effectively structured at the state-level.Information about the Massachusetts Connector
Massachusetts Association of Health Underwriters' Connector Resources This website answers commonly asked questions on how the Health Reform Act affects both employers and individuals. Massachusetts Association of Health Underwriters' Connector White Paper MassAHU released this informative paper on how the connector currently in place has affected their state. Massachusetts Health Connector Visit the Massachusetts Health Connector Authority's webpage to see plan and premium information. Health Care in Massachusetts: Key Indicators (May 2009) The Massachusetts Division of Health Care Finance and Policy issues quarterly progress reports that contain excellent data. Massachusetts Health Reform: High Costs and Expanding Expectations May Weaken Employer Support The Center for Studying Health System Change examined the successes and challenges of the Massachusetts reform, specifically how the reform is impacting employers and how cost control threatens to undermine coverage gains.
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