Policymakers in many states are interested in learning more about the genesis of the Massachusetts Connector, how it differs from the health purchasing cooperatives established in the early 1990s, and whether a Connector will help solve some of the current market and access problems present in states today.
In the spring and summer of 2007, the State Coverage Initiatives program held two small group consultative sessions to bring together several experts in purchasing mechanisms with some 50 state policymakers who are seriously considering advancing a Connector-like structure in their own states. An issue brief on this topic, Health Insurance Connectors & Exchanges: A Primer for State Officials, is now available. The brief summarizes lessons learned at those meetings and can serve as a primer to others interested in exploring or pursuing similar market reforms at the state level. The brief includes issues to consider when forming a Connector or Exchange. In addition, the agenda and presentations from the small group consultation meetings can be found at http://www.statecoverage.net/meetings.htm.
The brief was written by Amy Lischko, who has more than 15 years of experience working for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, at both the Department of Public Health and the Division of Health Care Finance and Policy. She has a Master’s degree in Health Policy and Management and extensive experience in health services research, policy analysis, and program evaluation.
