AHA report examines state marketplace stabilization strategies

A report released today by the AHA offers state-level strategies to help stabilize the Health Insurance Marketplaces. “Given the unique characteristics of each state, there is no single option that would work for all states, and all of the options come with implementation hurdles,” the report notes. “Among other considerations, we discuss which solutions may be more or less appropriate based on a state’s characteristics.” The Health Insurance Marketplaces established by the Affordable Care Act cover more than 10 million individuals, many of whom receive federal subsidies to reduce the cost of coverage. However, many of the Marketplaces are exhibiting signs of instability, and if it is not addressed, “insurers may choose not to sell in a Marketplace, leaving consumers without options for coverage and without the ability to access federal premium and cost-sharing subsidies,” the report notes. The report also includes AHA’s recommendations to Congress and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services on federal solutions for improving the Marketplaces.