The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) seeks public input on reducing the regulatory burdens of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking recommendations and input from the public on how to create a more flexible, streamlined approach to the regulatory structure of the individual and small group markets. Our goal through this process is to identify and eliminate or change regulations that are outdated, unnecessary, or ineffective; impose costs that exceed benefits; or create inconsistencies that otherwise interfere with regulatory reform initiatives and policies.

“We are looking for valuable feedback on how to change existing regulations in ways that put patients first, promote greater consumer choice, enhance affordability and return more control over healthcare to the States,” said CMS Administrator Seema Verma. “Through this step, CMS is asking consumers to send us innovative ideas that will help stabilize and strengthen the individual and small group health insurance markets.”

Consumers who have obtained coverage through the Exchanges are facing significant premium increases. A recent report issued by our Department of Health and Human Services states that the average premium in the 39 states using HealthCare.gov in 2017 increased from $232 in 2013 to $476 in 2017, which is a 105 percent increase.  Consumers are also dealing with fewer plans to choose from and a continuous stream of issuers exiting the Exchanges. 

The RFI follows steps CMS has already taken to help improve the health care system, including issuing the Market Stabilization Final Rule on April 18, 2017. This new rule will place downward pressure on premiums, limit special enrollment period abuses, and help to improve choices; while also reducing regulatory burden. The RFI will be open for public comment for 30 days.

To view the Request for Information, please visit: https://www.federalregister.gov/public-inspection/

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