Advocates propose policy paper topics for SIM

In response to an offer from SIM staff, independent consumer advocates have proposed six topics for SIM policy papers. Topics that need detail and public discussion include protecting consumer choice, competition, and the safety net against contrary financial incentives, ensuring patient-centered care, integration with public health, behavioral health and oral health, conflicts of interest, and…

Read More

Malloy signs bills allowing for-profit hospital conversions and not allowing e-cigarettes for minors

Among the 23 bills signed by Gov. Malloy yesterday was SB-35which eases CT hospitals’ conversion to for-profit status, however with more restrictions and protections for patients and workers. The Governor also signed SB-24making the sale of e-cigarettes to minors illegal.

Read More

Anthem & ConnectiCare premiums submitted are up sharply for 2015, HealthyCT rates down — updated

Proposed premiums for the insurance exchange were due to the insurance dept. Friday and they are up significantly from this year’s premiums, according to CT Mirror. Anthem’s proposed premiums are up 12.5% on average; ConnectiCare’s base rate is up 11.8% for next year. CT’s premiums for this year are the 4th highest in the nation…

Read More

Health reform dashboard up again but APCD decision drags down progress

The CT Health Reform Dashboard is up a notch again this month to 29.7% on the progress meter, reversing last month’s slide. Areas of progress include new insurance market entrants and, as usual, Medicaid’s progress in many areas driven by transparent, open policymaking. CT Medicaid has made consistent progress toward turning around a deeply troubled…

Read More