Release: Exchange Board Certifies Coordinated Care

Today, Richard Onizuka, CEO for the Washington Health Benefit Exchange, issued the following statement:

“We are pleased to certify three additional health plans through Coordinated Care for sale in Washington Healthplanfinder starting Oct. 1, 2013. By taking this action today, the Exchange has guaranteed that consumers will have the most robust and competitive marketplace possible when we open the first of next month. The Exchange appreciates the dedicated effort put forth by our staff, the OIC, as well as those representing the carriers participating in Washington Healthplanfinder. While this process took longer than expected, the end result is a broader range of coverage options in our state and a big win for consumers.

Today’s special meeting decision comes after the Board this past Wednesday certified seven health insurance carriers at a special Board meeting to offer 35 Qualified Health Plans (QHPs) for individuals and families through Washington Healthplanfinder. Additionally, four insurance carriers will offer pediatric Qualified Dental Plans (QDPs) and one insurance carrier will offer plans in the small business market.

The Board had initially taken up certification discussion at its regular Aug. 21 meeting and a special meeting on Aug. 29. The Exchange scheduled these special meetings to allow health plans in the appeals process with the OIC to complete the process. The OIC reached appeal settlements with Community Health Plan of Washington, Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Northwest and Molina Healthcare of Washington, Inc., approving 12 plans.

Today’s special board meeting was scheduled to allow Coordinated Care additional time to continue the OIC appeals process this week and receive certification from the Board.

The Exchange has rescheduled an upcoming special Board meeting to Tuesday, Sept. 10 to allow additional carriers to continue the OIC approval process and receive potential certification from the Board. Special meeting information is located here: http://www.wahbexchange.org/exchange-board/board-meetings/

For more information on the complete array of plans that will be offered, please visit wahbexchange.org

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