The Alabama Health Insurance Exchange Study Commission is preparing to present its suggestions to Governor Robert Bentley and the state legislature, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services reports.
Congressman Jim McClendon and Senator Greg Reed said the report indicates a health insurance exchange run by a quasi-governmental agency could be beneficial. Specifically, the exchange would allow citizens to compare health insurance plans and possibly apply for federal subsidies. According to McClendon, Bentley favors establishing an exchange regardless of the misgivings other states have shown.
According to the news source, the governor wishes to implement an exchange even if the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act mandating its establishment is successfully challenged before the Supreme Court, although he takes issue with some features of the law.
The exchanges are meant to serve individuals and businesses. If successful, their assistance could prove important at a time when employers and workers alike are struggling to cope with rising employee benefits and healthcare costs.
The commission will propose that a Alabama Health Insurance Marketplace be established to run the exchange, funding itself through fees but reporting to the legislature. Proponents of the idea say this separation between the government and the agency would help it make choices best for Alabama residents.
