The Departments of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Treasury have proposed three rules to help states establish Affordable Insurance Exchanges, state-based competitive marketplaces where individual and small businesses can purchase private health insurance.
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Get Your Report Now!The Affordable Care Act (ACA) creates Affordable Insurance Exchanges that will allow eligible individuals, families, and small businesses to shop for coverage starting in 2014.
The HHS announced they are awarding $185 million to 13 states and the District of Columbia to help them build Affordable Insurance Exchanges and, with Treasury, proposed three rules. In a press release, the government describes the rules as follows:
Exchange Eligibility and Employer Standards: An HHS proposed rule details the standards and process for enrolling in qualified health plans and insurance affordability programs. It also outlines basic standards for employer participation in the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP.)
Health Insurance Premium Tax Credit: Treasury Department proposed regulations lay out how individuals and families will receive premium tax credits to help defray insurance costs. The premium tax credits assist millions of middle-class Americans to make it easier for them to purchase affordable health insurance.
Medicaid Eligibility: Another HHS proposed rule expands and simplifies Medicaid eligibility and promotes a simple, seamless system of affordable coverage by coordinating Medicaid and the Children’s’ Health Insurance Program (CHIP) with the new Exchanges.
The Administration is asking for public comment on the three proposed rules from employers, consumers, state leaders, health care providers and insurers, and the public. In addition to accepting written public comments for the next 75 days, the departments will hold forums. These forums will help ensure more Americans have the opportunity to share their views regarding the establishment of Affordable Insurance Exchanges. Forums will be held in:
- Atlanta, GA
- Chicago, IL
- Denver, CO
- New York, NY
- Portland, OR
- Sacramento, CA
The departments expect to modify the proposed rules issued today based on the feedback.
For more information about the proposed rules, visit www.healthcare.gov.