Who can you meet at the 2nd Annual Health Insurance Exchange Congress

With the future of healthcare appearing in the news daily, you need to know what your company needs to do now so you can take advantage of new opportunities. There is a lot at stake and the timelines are tight. We invite you to join us at the 2nd Annual Health Insurance Exchange Congress, taking place on November 13-14th in Baltimore.

Don’t let your company fall behind. Join top executives from the following companies to take a tactical approach to developing and implementing a successful health insurance exchange. Make sure you reserve your spot today!

2012 Attending Companies:

A Health Care Market Research Service, Inc. * Aetna Inc. * Allergan Inc. * Amerigroup Corporation * Amylin Pharmaceuticals Inc. * Blue Cross Blue Shield * Boehringer Ingelheim Pharmaceuticals * bswift * California Technology Agency * CareSource * Catholic Health Initiatives * Cognosante LLC * Colorado Health Benefit Exchange * D-Wise Technologies Inc. * Dynamic Healthcare Systems Inc. * EngagePoint * Governor Chris Gregoire’s Executive Policy Office * Health Alliance Medical Plans * Health Care For All * Health Connector Authority * HealthLeaders InterStudy * Health Management Associates * HealthPass New York * Highmark * Maryland Health Benefit Exchange * Massachusetts Health Insurance Connector * Mathematica Policy Research * Navigant * New England States Collaborative for Insurance Exchange Systems (NESCIES) * NCQA * Novo Nordisk * Office of Inspector General * OpenView Consulting * OptumInsight * Oregon Health Authority * Quality Health Strategies * Rosetta * State of Connecticut * State of Oregon * State of Rhode Island * State of Utah * Total Medical Management * UnitedHealthcare - Community and State* University of Massachusetts Medical School * University of Pennsylvania * UPMC Health Plan * US Army * Wakely Consulting * Wake Forest University Medical School * Walgreens

Ready to join these companies?  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us at the Health Insurance Exchange Congress this  November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago and save 15% off the standard rate when mention code XP1710BLOG! If you have any questions about the program, feel free to email Jennifer Pereira.

Times Are A-Changin’. But Will Employers Really Dump Health Insurance Coverage?

Today's guest post comes from bswift.  They will be at the 2nd Annual Health Insurance Exchange Congress this November 13-14, 2012.  If you'd like to join them, register today and mention code P1710BLOG and save 15% off the standard rate!

Speculation about employers dropping group coverage in 2014 has sparked debate about what pressures will drive evolution of the health insurance market. Most American workers expect funding and access to a health plan through employment. The notion of employers dropping group coverage without simultaneously providing funding and access to individual coverage is naïve. Labor demands won’t allow it. That’s not to say that certain employers won’t drop group coverage, but those that do will certainly be pressured to take the money formerly spent on group health insurance and give it to employees in some form. However, employers are unlikely to drop group coverage unless all employees have fair and equal access to individual coverage.

Availability of coverage is not enough – price matters. So how will individual product prices compare with small group or large group plans? Massachusetts commissioned a 2006 study of their marketplace in which they compared individual product prices to small group product prices at a time where both markets were guaranteed issue (GI), but before the Commonwealth merged the two markets. The study revealed that GI individual products were priced about 15% higher than small group products, comparing apples to apples. Some states are certain to keep the individual market pooled separately from small group, and as a result, individual products will be more costly than comparable group plans in those states. For large employers, their self-insured rates will likely trump both individual and small group rates.

For the foreseeable future, large groups will hold together as group health plans mainly based on cost, and many small group markets will offer enough pricing incentive to act as glue for small group health plans. That’s not to say private exchanges won’t make head way, but that many private exchanges that target employer groups will offer group health plans (e.g. Utah Health Exchange, HealthPass New York, Aon Hewitt, etc.) rather than individual health plans.

Let us know what you think. Stop by bswift’s booth at the Health Insurance Exchange Congress in Chicago, November 13-14 to join the conversation.

About bswift
Based in Chicago, bswift offers software and services that streamline benefits, HR and payroll administration. bswift's state-of-the-art Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) technology and Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) solutions significantly reduce administrative costs and time-consuming paperwork, making life easier for administrators and more than one million consumers who enroll in benefits with bswift. For more information, visit www.bswift.com.

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Tuesday, October 16

Today, we take a look at some of the factors surrounding the health insurance exchanges.  It's becoming more apparent that companies are finding exchanges a useful tool to distribute health insurance exchanges to their employees.  Others are looking at it as a useful opportunity to collect data to assess certain populations who haven't had extensive health insurance coverage.

Utah has been quiet on it's plans for expanding Medicaid and the future of their exchange.  Governor Herbert has been silent about the state's plans thus far.  While they have an exchange  there are no announced plans to change it to conform with the federal exchange plans or partner with the government to ffer an exchange.  The article at the Salt Lake City Tribune is also the first article that's said the deadline to declare an exchange could possibly be pushed back to December 1.

At the Center For American Progress, they look at the new data that health insurance exchanges will bring in for some populations that have been previously underserved populations, in this particular case, the LGBT population.  They point out that by collecting data on this new population, trends can be identified to develop better healthcare and prevention plans for the population.

The insurance offered by companies may also be transforming into an exchange as well.  According to PYMNTs.com, if companies offer their employees exchanges, they are better able to manage benefit costs and give their employees more power in choosing a plan that will benefit their needs and budget.

Want to learn more about the health insurance exchange? This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Monday, October 15

Pennsylvania State Flag

Many states are still left at a loss with what the government would like from them in terms of creating their exchanges.  Others are left wondering how to finance their exchanges after the government stops the grants in 2016.

In Minnesota, they've estimated the cost of running an exchange per year is approximately $40 million. With grants, they've been fine reaching that amount.  However, after the government quits giving out grants, the state government is left trying to figure out how to finance it.  According to MPR, the $40 million estimate does not include the amount of money to compensate the insurance brokers, which could add to that number.

Pennsylvania has announced that the likelihood of creating a state run exchange is now slim.  They had originally intended to create an exchange, but did not receive answers from the government as to specifics of the exchange.  They're not alone, 22 other states have signed up for exchange groups with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners according to the Pittsburgh Post Gazette.

Fox Business provides an in-depth look at where the Presidential candidates stand on healthcare reform.

Want to learn more about the health insurance exchange? This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Download the Updated Health Insurance Exchange Congress Brochure

The updated brochure for the 2nd Annual Health Insurance Exchange Congress is now available. This year's program offers something for everyone, from health plans that want to plan to grow membership to states that want to make sure they are prepared to increase access to care. The 2nd Annual Health Insurance Exchange Congress offers an all-star lineup of experts making sure you are well informed for 2014.

Download the updated agenda.

The Health Insurance Exchange Congress will take place November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL. As a reader of this blog, you’ll save 15% off the standard rate when you register to join us and mention code XP1710LINK! If you have any questions about the program, feel free to email Jennifer Pereira.

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Tuesday, October 9

Mississippi State Flag

Is the new Affordable Care Act law pushing the private sector insurance companies to start running their own internal exchanges?  Today, we see a continuing trend that insurance exchanges in the private industry are now on the rise.

In Idaho, they're examining their options for creating a state run exchange and hit the federal requirements and timelines that were set in place.  Modeled much after how Hawaii came to create their exchange, they will tinker with the Idaho Health Data Exchange to fit the needs of the new requirements.  According to the Spokesman -Review, they would need a state established private  non-profit corporation.  This currently isn't established in the state.

Following up on our story from Wednesday, October 3, CFO Magazine has an in-depth look at the current transition of many companies switching to exchanges in order to provide their employees health insurance.  They believe that these could be the future of private exchanges   It is still up for debate whether or not the having a single carrier or multiple carriers has an influence on the price.

Mississippi is a "State of Misery" where poor health, poverty and crime are all at disturbing levels.  Over 19% of the population, approximatly 19%, have no health insurance.  Although the governor has decided not to expand Medicaid, but Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney is working to get a state run exchange moving.  His goal is to create the exchange then hand it over to a non-profit that will provide the subsidized insurance according to Bloomberg Business Week.

Minnesota has created the exchange and has a prototype of what it will look like online.  Check it out here.  They are also unique as they have involved their state citizens thorughout the creation of the exchange base don these six principles: Universal coverage, High quality, affordable health care, Consumer friendly, Eliminate health disparities, Accountable and Competition according to Health in Minnesota.

Want to learn more about the health insurance exchange? This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Wednesday, October 3

Michigan State Flag

More than just states are joining the chance to participate in exchanges.  Two major employers shared they would offer the exchange to their employees.  Many other states are also facing the challenges of running their own exchange and have decided to partner with the state government who may be working with a few more states than it had originally planned when setting out to build the exchanges.

Michigan is one of the states that had originally planned to create a state run exchange.  However, due to the lack of action from their House of Representatives and the fast approaching deadline, they will partner with the federal government to get their exchange running.  They will maintain control of the plan selection, benefit package information and more according to Foster Swift.  They can also spin off and create and exchange fully run by the state at some point in the future.

On a similar note, a report from Price Waterhouse Cooper has reported that only 13 states and Washington DC have commuted to creating an exchange.  This is quite a few more than original number the federal government had planned on establishing.  Those looking to capture the new market, which is the biggest government expansion in the healthcare realm since 1965.  Those who will be insured are expected to cycle between Medicaid and the subsidized exchange are numbered at 12 million.

And in one of the first moves by major corporations towards exchanges, Sears Holding and Darden Restaurants have announced they will offer insurance to their employees through a private exchange. They will provide insurance advisers and employees will have access to a wide range of benefits.  Health Data Management believes this will increase the competition and quality of the insurance provided.

Want to learn more about the health insurance exchange? This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Monday, October 1

State Flag of Maryland

One year from today, health insurance exchanges will open for enrollment.  For those states who have committed to how the state will run their exchanges, they are now working on the logistics of running it a year from today.

While exchanges are set up to easily represent the choices available when selecting health insurance, Minnesota is worried about how to easily understand what choices are available.  So the state is bringing in "Warm Connectors."  When choosing a health plan through work, employees can go to their human resources representative, and the state is hoping that the Warm Connector will function much the same to answer any questions that go through the exchange.  However, now the state is figuring out who will have this job.  Should it be the insurance brokers who already have an in-depth knowledge base on this topic? If so, how will they be compensated?  Minnesota Public Radio has more on the topic.

Maryland recently came to some big decisions about their basic health plan that will be offered through the exchange.  Those offered in the private market will be modeled after the insurance the state employees receive.  The state also ruled that in vitro fertilization will not be covered on the basic plan, setting the benchmark for the items that will be covered.  The Baltimore Business Journal has more.

And finally, South Dakota Governor Dennis Daugaard has decided that the state will be unable to run an exchange.  They will use the one provided by the federal government.  They will ask the federal government to maintain the authority to regulate the insurance plans.  The government still hasn't released what benefits that exchange will include according to the Insurance Journal.

Want to learn more about the health insurance exchange? This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!  

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Wednesday, September 19

State flag of Kentucky

While some states are outgrowing their original health insurance exchange plans, other companies are partnering up to help make insurance's move to the health insurance exchange system easier.  As deadlines loom - each state faces different decisions.  What will each state do for health insurance?

In New Jersey, the Senator Nia Gill (D-Montclair), Senator and Dawn Marie Addiego (R-Medford) and Assemblyman Herb Conaway (D-Delran) discussed how they implement a health insurance exchange in a state where Governor Chris Christie vetoed the creation of it. New Jersey Biz has a more in depth look at what at the challenges that New Jersey is facing.

A recent letter from Pennsylvania’s Insurance Commissioner, Michael Consedine to the HHS shares that they haven't made much progress in Pennsylvania in terms of their own state run exchange. His concerns follow that of many states - that not enough guidance in creating a state exchange has been given by the federal government. It also shares Consedine's concern for the current insurances in the state as well as the worry that the state won't be able to support the Exchange by 2015 according to the Public Health Esquire blog.

In Kentucky, a nineteen member health insurance exchange board has been created to guide the state in creating an exchange.Governor Steve Beshear. The board includes major hospitals and advocate groups. They will review policies and make recommendations for the exchange according to WFPL.

And finally, Xerox and HealthPlan have teamed up in order to make adopting the different state exchanges easier. The new agreement will allow insurances to comply with all exchanges without having to individually change their settings according to each state according to the Tampa Bay Business Journal.

Want to learn more about the health insurance exchange? This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Tuesday, September 18

Now that deadlines are closing in for many aspects of the health insurance exchange, many states are facing challenges in aspects of the exchange - whether it be technical or coverage related.

Vision isn't mandated for coverage in the exchange.  Vision Service Plan in California is also not currently covered in the upcoming California Health Benefit Exchange.  Last month, according to The Sacramento Bee, the board elected to exclude stand-alone vision plans.  VSP, based in Sacramento, has threatened to close it's headquarters and move states should this change.

After the exchanges are created, how will state governments get the word out and encourage citizens to sign up?  California will be teaming up with with popular television show stars to spread the word.  Shows such as Dr. Oz, Grey's Anatomy, and Modern Family will run storyline referencing healthcare according to The Foundry.  Though a California initiative, these story lines will benefit citizens around the country who tune into the shows.

Along with the new coverage for health insurance, citizens are entitled to grants should they be able to quality through the US Government.  In order to qualify those individuals, they'll have access to data from the IRS they haven't previously had access to.  Many states are figuring out how to make the exchanges more robust.  States including Rhode Island have planned on rolling all health services into the exchange.  According to Governing, the lack of access to IRS Information has been one of the things that has kept states and the Obama Administration debating throughout the setup process.

And finally, a Missouri judge found the wording for voting ballots unfair and insufficient.  They will instead use wording that is backed by Republicans.  It was argued that the state is not allowed to deny healthcare to the citizens of Missouri. According to the San Francisco Chronicle If approved by voters, the Missouri ballot measure would bar the governor or other Missouri officials from creating a health insurance exchange without approval from voters or the Legislature.

Want to learn more about the health insurance exchange? This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Monday, September 17

Iowa State Flag

Today in the Health Insurance Exchange news, much of the focus is on the deadline of September 30 for states to submit their minimum coverage requirements. Others are focusing on November release of the government with their regulations and final deadline of creating a state versus relying on the federal government to create their exchanges.

Iowa recently received a Level 1 grant from the federal government.  A few of the items they've chosen to use their funding for to enhance the exchange focusing on the technical aspects of the exchange according to Information Week Health Care. include a redesign of their current database for both  those in the system and other who will be signing up for their services.  The will also work on integrating the eligibility system for both the Medicaid and Children's Health Insurance Program.

Mississippi Insurance Commissioner Mike Chaney has the difficult challenge of setting up a state exchange in his state.  They were one of the states who participated in the lawsuit that challenged the legality of the Act, and are now challenged with the task of having the exchange up and running by 2014.  According to Live Insurance News, One of his major challenges is the opposition coming from the state law makers, who are against setting up a state exchange.

In Colorado, they're debating what the minimum benefits will be covered in their exchange.  They're intent on providing their citizens with a "Colorado Specific Solution".  Their state work group has reviewed 10 options and received feedback from industry and consumer advocates.  For more information on Colorado's success in creating their exchange, visit Kaiser Health News.

And finally, The Maryland Health Connection has unveiled it's official exchange name, logo and webpage.  In addition to the announcement about the name, logo and webpage, Lt Governor Anthony Brown announced that the state also received a federal grant of $123 to help build the webpage according to the Washington Post.

Want to learn more about the health insurance exchange? This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Grow Your Plan's Membership through Health Insurance Exchanges

Health insurance exchanges are a reality. States are moving forward with the exchanges and plans need to start building their exchange strategy now so they are ready to compete when the states begin enrollment. At the Health Insurance Exchange Congress on November 13 – 14, you will take away the tools you need to prepare for exchanges and increase your membership.

You will get expert insight from industry leaders including:

• - Jonathan Seib, JD, MPA, Executive Policy Advisor for Washington Governor Chris Gregoire, who will share the risks and rewards of their Basic Health Plan option so you can determine if it’s right for your plan
• - Kenneth Berklee, Senior Vice President, Marketing and Product Development at Amerigroup, who will share strategies on how to appeal to specific segments of the proposed member pool
• - Robert Smith, Senior Account Manager for Quest Analytics, who will share the expected user profile so you can begin network expansion to appeal to potential members

To view the complete list of sessions and speakers please download the agenda.

As a reader of this blog, you’ll save 15% off the standard rate when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG! If you have any questions about the program, feel free to email Jennifer Pereira.

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Tuesday, August 28

Virgin Islands Flag

In today's Health Insurance Exchange Update, we look at how many states are emerging to start considering their own exchanges.  We are also seeing the debate emerge as to how to best name an exchange in order to best encourage use from the public.

The Democratic front runner for governor in Indiana,John Gregg, also former House Speaker have recently met with current Indiana Governor Mitch Daniels to encourage a hybrid exchange powered by both Indiana and the federal government. Gregg will be formally releasing his position in a few days. According to the Courrier Press, the current running Republican Candidate, Mike Pence, is against creating an exchange should he be elected governor Indiana.

The Smart Talk Podcast, recorded in Pennsylvania, looks at how the health insurance exchange would function and also some of the views from Pennsylvania residents. As it currently stands, there are no plans for the state to create the exchange. But as the podcast guests point out the needs for healthcare in Pennsylvania vary widely from Pittsburgh to Philadelphia and many are weary of the one size fits all Exchange that the federal government would provide.

Yesterday, Nebraska encouraged it's citizens to come out and share their feedback on how they feel about the state participating in Health Insurance Exchanges according to it's news channel KOTA.

The Virgin Islands have recently hired consultants to asses their ability to IT abillities and the impact the exchange would have on their current insurances according to JSPURA.

And finally, California is in the process of choosing an name for its exchange.  Of the many names presented, the one catching headlines is "Avocado: A uniquely California approach to affordable healthcare." According to the LA Times, names presented will undergo consumer testing later this year.

This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Monday, August 27

As we grow closer to the deadline, we are seeing a number of states commit to a state-run health insurance exchagne.  We're also seeing the government continue to give out funding and grants in order to encourage states to create their own exchange.

Eight more states have received funding for their health insurance exchanges according to ExecutiveGov.  States receiving Level 1 Funding include California, Hawai, Iowa and New York.  Receiving Level 2 funding include Connecticut, Maryland, Nevada and Vermont.  These states receiving Level 2 funding are farther along in their exchange development process.  According to the article, so far, 34 states have received funding in order to create a health insurance exchange.

Recent reports from the New York Daily News share that it costs a family to insure themselves for as much as $8462 a month, while individuals can insure themselves for $18,384 a year.  This leaves many New Yorkers to choose to go uninsured while those who choose to get health insurance, often those with chronic conditions, to pay even higher insurance bills.  As New York is one of the states going ahead with a state run exchange, it is hoped that the competition will drive health insurance costs down so that they become more affordable in the area.

The Washington Post paints a clear picture of what Republicans have in mind should they take over the White House this November.  They would like to create a budget that would cover a set amount for Medicaid and Medicare and leave the States and Patients to decide what benefits can and cannot afford beyond that point.

After receiving the grant from the US Governemnt, Connecticut has declared to official proceed with their state run exchange.  According to News 8, they have received a total of $116 million to create their health insurance exchange.

This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Monday, August 20, 2012

Maryland State Flag

Last week here on the blog, we focused on creating a strong IT presence for a healthcare exchange.  In today's update, we see a number of state prepping for their exchanges by partnering with IT firms.  For those who are not, many states are delaying their discussions as long as they can to avoid creating an exchange for their state.

As IT is such an important part of the healthcare exchange, many professional services catering to the industry are seeing a boost in the contracts they are receiving.  According to the Washington Post, there have been 75 contracts awarded nationally in relation to the new health insurance exchange.  They point out that 14 of these contracts have been signed Maryland and Washington, DC.  These two states have committed to building their own exchanges to prepare for the deadline in 2014.

Utah, one of the current states already running an Exchange, has partnered with Certifi as their financial partner for their exchange.  According to Visual Strategy, they will be responsible for responsible for processing all necessary invoicing, collections and disbursements of insurance premiums and commissions.

In Missouri, a restraining order has been issued after the Secretary of State blocked a ballot summary referencing the vote for the Heath Insurance Exchange in Missouri.  Many believe that the question is misleading and will not lead to a fair vote for Missourians when they are voting for a state or federal run health insurance exchange.  The ballot question referenced is: Shall Missouri law be amended to deny individuals, families, and small businesses the ability to access affordable health care plans through a state-based health benefit exchange unless authorized by statute, initiative or referendum or through an exchange operated by the federal government as required by the federal health care act?  According to Missourinet, they believe the ballot is bias.  The courts will issue a ruling on August 28.

In Kentucky, the vote for the creation of an exchange by the Interim Joint Committee on Health and Welfare has been delayed until the next session. They claimed there was not enough information on how it would work and operate to vote properly. The federal government would pay for the exchange the first year, then pass the costs off to the states. The Lane Report claims that it would cost the states $67 million in the second year of operation.

This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Tuesday, August 15, 2012

Nevada State Flag

Unlike yesterday's report, today's states are working on implementing a health insurance exchange.  Some states are focusing on the logistics of their exchanges and how they will run sustainability in the future.

At the Commonwealth Fund, they posted a podcast that looks at the current state of health insurance exchange.  Of the 34 states that have received federal aid, only 13 have started building their exchanges.  Many of these states have issued plans for their exchanges, but they remain vague enough to The final date of declaring a state will create its own exchange will be in November.

In the latest edition of the Focus on Health Reform from the Kaiser Family Foundation, they take a more in-depth look at where states are standing in terms of creating their exchange.  They also look at the partnerships some states looking to form in order to create a better exchange for their citizens such as Montana and Wyoming as well as Arkansas, Delaware and Illinois.

Governor Brian Sandoval of Nevada has approved a contract to jump start the creation of their exchange, but believes in order to be successful it needs to be built to be sustainable.  According to Business Week, he is opposed to long-term funding of the exchange due to the money it would take away from Nevada's general fun.

In Illinois, they are looking to partner with the federal government for a year, then branch off to their own exchange.  They have issued a call looking for an IT company to come in and create, operate and maintain their digital exchange platform.  According to Modern Healthcare, they expect to abandon their joint exchange for an Illinois-only exchange by 2015.

NBC Miami looks at how the poverty level in some states that are thinking of not expanding Medicaid could affect those citizens who are just above the poverty line.

This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Tuesday, August 14, 2012

North Carolina State Flag

In today's Health Insurance Exchange Report, we see an overwhelming trend.  All of the states today have chosen to implement their own exchange.  Their next challenge is what to cover?  And for those who have not made their statement that they intend to create an exchange, the Obama Administration is making a push for them to do so.

In California, John Ramey, the President of the Local Health Plans of California writes to the Mercury News sharing his desire for his state to consider instituting a Basic Health Plan. This would allow for more than 800,000 Californians to be eligible for the healthcare. For John's complete opinion piece, visit Mercury News.

The Oregon Health Policy Board is meeting today to discuss what they'll be covering in their state run exchange. According to Oregon Live, they will be addressing what the lowest benefits they will carry are on the Oregon Health Insurance Exchange.

The North Carolina Institute of Medicine is making headway in their quest to open their state run exchange. Adam Searing, Project Director for the Health Access Coalition at the N.C. Justice Center also believes that the state must extend their coverage to some of the poorest in the state. With the federal government paying for 93% of the expansion, expansion is necessary. News Observer also comments that in addition to helping with coverage to these poorest Americans, in turn, the hospitals in those rural areas would receive more funding as they often foot the bill for those who cannot pay.

Here's a quick Q&A with Mike Chaney, State Insurance Commissioner of Mississippi from the North Eastern Mississippi Daily Journal.

And finally, this week is the week the Obama Administration is making a big push to encourage states to begin working on their own exchanges.  It's critical to start now in order to have the exchange done by the due date set by the Affordable Care Act.  They'll be making stops in Washington, DC, Atlanta, Chicago and Denver.  With only 15 states having started on their exchange, the Federal Government is currently worried about the degree of cooperation they'll receive when coordinating the reminder of the states for a Federal Exchange.  The Chicago Tribute has more.

This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Monday, August 13, 2012

Minnesota State Flag

With the Supreme Court passing the legislation to keep the Affordable Care Act for the most part in tact, many states are still questioning what they should do. However, others are taking steps to make their exchanges a reality while others are looking at the impact of Medicaid expansion on their state and budget.

Minnesota is one of the first states to award a contract to a technology company in order to create their exchange. They have contracted Maximus for two years to help them set up their digital exchange. According to the Star Tribune,  It is expected to launch in Fall 2013.

In Arizona,Chuck Coughlin and Peter Burns were hired to create a campaign in order to encourage the state government to approve Medicaid expansion. They unite the voices of hospitals, insurance plans, providers and other players.  Should the Medicaid Expansion be approved, up to 300,000 Arizona citizens will eligible for healthcare from the program.  According to the Tuscon Citizen, they argue that without the expansion, hospitals and doctors will continue losing patients who are uninsured and money from those who are not.

Maryland is a democratic state while neighboring state Virginia is republican, and the vast differences between their approaches to creating the health insurance exchange.  Virginia's governor Bob McDonnell has yet to authorize an exchange.  The District of Columbia began assessing it's options in Fall 2011, and plans thus far have not made decisions as to whether it will be an open or closed to all providers and will be mostly internet exchanged.  For more on the comparison of the three states and where they stand in the Exchange process, read the article at the Washington Post.

In Vermont, they're looking at their exchange as a bridge to what the state really wants to set up - a government run single payor healthcare system.  By taking the federal money to fund their current healthcare exchange, they're able to create that system - Green Mountain Care - which will open for business in 2017.  Read more about the plans for this exchange at the Heartlander.

This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Wednesday, August 8, 2012

Oklahoma Flag

Setting up exchanges is a topic some legislatures do not want to deal with until the election. The name has even come under fire lately which will be explained further. But there are three states are setting up CO-OPs, California is having an issue with legislation that could hurt their exchange program, and Oklahoma seems to have been a victim of politics in the health care decision.

Tulsa World writes that Oklahoma, along with 28 other states, has decided not to set up their own exchanges. But the article tells that the legislature had every intention to set it up but they came under pressure from others not to set up the exchanges. But the state is looking at a possible expansion of Medicaid, sending letters to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius with possible scenarios. 

In the west, three states are leading the charge with Consumer-Oriented and Operated Plans (CO-OPs). Allowed under the Affordable Care Act, CO-OPs are mean to stimulate more competitive rates for health plans offered through exchanges. Three states that are going forward with CO-OPS are Nevada, Arizona and Colorado. But there are questions about what would happen. If it is a success, then it could be a new sales channel for drug companies. But if it fails, costs could spiral out of control because CO-OPs cannot reject applicants and those applicants could possibly have expensive medical problems.

California has been leading by example, setting up one of the first exchanges in the country. But now there is news that this could be derailed somehow. Sacramento has legislation that would create a Basic HealthPlan. This will pose a potential threat to the California Health Benefit Exchange. The Basic Health Plan would take people who make less than two times federal poverty level out of the marketplace. It would put these individuals into a system that is run by the state’s Medicare called Medi-Cal. If this legislation is passed, it would rob about 40 percent of consumers and lose half of federal funding. The legislation is supported by public health plans, safety net providers and county workers. Those who oppose this legislation are private health plans and conventional provider network that would rather compete for consumers through exchanges.  But this plan would lead to more problems besides competition. The Basic Health Plan is affordable only because it pays doctors and hospitals less than their underlying cost for providing care. In addition to that, there could unforeseen financial risk. The amount of federal funding that would be needed for the plan will not be determined until the end of the year, which is when the state sets their premium costs. This could lead to overestimating and a difference that could lead to $500 million. 

Never mind the fact that states are still opting not to set up most of the Affordable Care Act, there are some contemplating actually changing the name of exchanges.  In an article written for the Wall Street Journal, the word exchange is said to “raise suspicion of loopholes.” So with that, other states are now trying to come up with different names like Washington may be leaning towards Washington Healthlink, and Minnesota with two options: Health choices and Minnesota Health Insurance. As long as the exchanges are being applied, the name seems to be a minor issue though to appeal to consumers it may have to be welcoming.

This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!

Health Insurance Exchange Update: Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Idaho State Flag

Meetings continue to be conduct in states who are trying to figure out how much money will go towards setting up state-run exchanges. But there are some states (sixteen at the present time) are moving forward with their own exchange program. But one is head and shoulders ahead of the pack.

California is the farthest ahead of other states in creating their exchange program. According to the San Jose Mercury News, the state is so far ahead that they are going ahead and will have major marketing campaigns to attract Californians. California’s exchange marketplace is said to be like the Amazon of health care purchases. But there are some who are skeptical about the makeup of the exchange marketplace. They wonder if this will be something like the Department of Motors instead of a consumer superstore. John Graham, director of health care studies for Pacific Research Institute, states that he has yet to see “a government agency that works like Amazon.” The state is going on with the exchange program that will be an active purchaser. That means that state lawmakers will set the criteria, negotiate with insurers and decide who can offer plans. Out the sixteen states that created exchanges, only a few have this power. But some still believe that this will not be a good option. Some feel that this will actually limit the options for the consumers. But California will be moving forward with this plan and it will be able to go live October 2013.

The administration of Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam met Tuesday to give their input on what to do with the new health care law. The meeting was centered round what health conditions should be covered under essential health benefit package that is included in the health care law. The essential health benefit package is set to include emergency services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, prescription drugs among other things. Though essential health benefit package is not part of the expansion of Medicaid, however the tier in health insurance exchange must have sixty or seventy percent of the essential health benefit package. 

As a follow up to the meeting that was conducted in Idaho Monday, they have come up with a decision. The state has opted not to take federal money to start their state-run exchange program. The lawmakers were met with three options regarding state-run exchanges: they can apply for grant money; they can allow the federal government to set up their exchanges; or they can have an option of partnership of sharing it with the federal government. But no matter what the state does, there are some who say that there will be a need of money from the government. The next time the state can apply for a federal grant will be in November. 

This November, the Health Insurance Exchange Congress will be held November 13-14, 2012 in Chicago, IL.  Here, state officials and health plans with the only opportunity to come together to discuss PPACA and strategize on how to make this a successful opportunity for all.  For more information on this year's agenda, download the program here.  As a reader of this blog, when you register to join us and mention code XP1710BLOG, you'll receive 15% off the standard rate!