HHS Issues Interim Final Rules for State Health Benefits Exchanges
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) recently issued a final rule that provides states with considerable flexibility in the organization and operation of PPACA-mandated state health benefit Exchanges. The March 27, 2012 interim final rule supersedes prior rules issued on July 15, 2011 (Establishment of Exchanges and Qualified Health Plans) and on August 17, 2011 (Exchange Functions in the Individual Market: Eligibility Determinations and Exchange Standards for Employers). The new rule combines many provisions of prior interim rules and includes additional options for states.
The regulations are detailed in 166 pages of guidance on ways a state can organize an Exchange, including how to create a SHOP exchange for small business employees. The rule also reviews eligibility and enrollment processes, as well as the way in which HHS will certify state health insurance exchanges.
The rule highlights include:
We will continue to keep you up-to-date on these and other developments in our ever-evolving marketplace. Please visit www.HealthcareExchange.com for blog posts, polls, surveys and numerous resources, or you may visit www.benefitmall.com to view past Legislative Alerts.
Sincerely,
Michael Gomes
Executive Vice President
The views expressed in this post do not necessarily reflect the official policy, position, or opinions of BenefitMall. This update is provided for informational purposes. Please consult with a licensed accountant or attorney regarding any legal and tax matters discussed herein.