H&W: New Steps Issued to Help States Build Insurance Exchanges

New Steps Issued to Help States Build Insurance Exchanges: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) along with the Department of the Treasury released three proposed rules to help Exchange development in states.

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 Small Business Health Options Programs (SHOP).

Health Insurance Premium Tax Credit:  Treasury Department proposed regulations lay out how individuals and families can receive premium tax credits to help defray insurance costs.

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 Childrens’ Health Insurance Program (CHIP) with the new Exchanges.

More information can be found on the government health care web site.