SCI-The Basic Health Program Option under Federal Health Reform: Issues for Consumers and States

State Coverage Initiatives announces a new issue brief on the Basic Health Program (BHP), called The Basic Health Program Option under Federal Health Reform: Issues for Consumers and States. The report outlines both the potential benefits of BHP and possible pitfalls—it is a must-read for states considering a BHP.

The BHP is an option under the ACA that allows the states the option to develop an insurance plan for individuals with incomes between 133 and 200 percent of the federal poverty level (FPL) and for low-income legally resident immigrants whose immigration status prevents them from receiving Medicaid. Under the law, states could opt to receive 95 percent of the federal subsidy amount that would have been offered in the health insurance exchange to devise a state-run program.