Christian Vialva - HealthSource RI

Compare Plans and Get a Quick Quote

Christian Vialva — Wed, 28 Oct 2020 15:25:22 +0000

Get a quick quote today!

Use our Plan Comparison Tool to compare plans and get a quick quote.

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Health Coverage Special Enrollment Period (SEP) Extended through April 30, 2020

Christian Vialva — Mon, 13 Apr 2020 19:30:46 +0000

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (April 13, 2020) — HealthSource RI has extended the limited-time Special Enrollment Period (SEP) that was established following Governor Raimondo’s State of Emergency declaration in response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19). This SEP provides an opportunity for uninsured Rhode Islanders to purchase coverage through April 30, 2020. Coverage will begin on the first of the month following the application.

Rhode Islanders who wish to obtain coverage can do so by visiting www.HealthSourceRI.com and enrolling online, or by contacting the HealthSource RI call center Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm at 1-855-840-4774. When completing the online enrollment form, Rhode Islanders should select the “other” SEP event and indicate COVID-19 or coronavirus as the explanation. Once approved, customers will need to choose a plan and pay for their first month of coverage.

In addition to the COVID-19 related SEP, HealthSource RI offers a year-round Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for Rhode Islanders who experience qualifying life changes, such as losing employer-sponsored health coverage, getting married, turning 26 and transitioning off a parent’s insurance, having a baby, or moving to RI. These Special Enrollment Periods are available for a sixty-day period after the qualifying life event has taken place. For Rhode Islanders who are experiencing a change in employment status and a loss of coverage, plans through HealthSource RI may be more affordable than COBRA coverage or other options because financial assistance is available. Rhode Islanders can enroll before their employer coverage ends to avoid a gap in coverage.

“HealthSource RI is here to help Rhode Islanders enroll in high quality, affordable health coverage, and we want everyone to know that if they are without coverage, now is the time get it,” said HealthSource RI Director Lindsay Lang. “If you are not currently covered, you have two more weeks to enroll through the COVID-19 Special Enrollment Period. If you are losing the health coverage you have through your job, please call us. We can help you get covered and many people are eligible for help that brings down the cost of coverage. It is now more important than ever to sign up and stay covered.”

Media Contact
Robin Dionne
Chief Public Affairs Officer, HealthSource RI
401-338-1128
Robin.Dionne@exchange.ri.gov

About HealthSource RI:
HealthSource RI was created because buying health insurance is complicated. It’s HealthSource RI’s job to help Rhode Islanders cut through the confusion and choose the best, most affordable health insurance plan possible. Since 2013, HealthSource RI has decreased the uninsured rate by more than two thirds, and today, more than 96 percent of Rhode Islanders have health coverage. Starting January 1, 2020, health insurance is now required in Rhode Island. Rhode Islanders need to have continuous health coverage in 2020 to avoid paying a penalty at tax time. For more information, visit HealthSourceRI.com, follow us on Twitter @HealthSourceRI, and like us on Facebook at fb.com/HealthSourceRI.

The post Health Coverage Special Enrollment Period (SEP) Extended through April 30, 2020 first appeared on HealthSource RI.

Special Enrollment Period (SEP) available to Rhode Islanders losing employer-sponsored health coverage

Christian Vialva — Fri, 20 Mar 2020 17:00:35 +0000

Special Enrollment Period is available for up to 60 days from the loss of coverage

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (March 20, 2020) — HealthSource RI offers a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for Rhode Islanders experiencing life changes, such as getting married, having a baby, moving to RI, or losing/changing jobs.

We want to remind Rhode Islanders that loss of health coverage is a qualifying event which allows enrollment through HealthSource RI. For Rhode Islanders who are also experiencing a change in income, plans through HealthSource RI may be more affordable than COBRA coverage or other options because financial assistance is available. Individuals making less than $49,960 annually and a family of 4 making less than $103,000 annually are eligible to receive financial assistance.

Rhode Islanders can enroll before their employer coverage ends to avoid a gap in coverage. Coverage can begin as soon as the 1st of the month after employer coverage ends. Rhode Islanders who wish to obtain coverage can do so by visiting www.HealthSourceRI.com and enrolling online, or by contacting the HealthSource RI call center Monday-Friday, 8am-6pm at 1-855-840-4774.

Please note: Rhode Islanders making less than $1,467/month as an individual or less than $3,079/month as a family of four may qualify for low-cost coverage or free coverage through Medicaid. Those who are eligible for Medicaid may enroll at any time throughout the year.

“Ensuring that Rhode Islanders have access to health coverage is HealthSource RI’s mission. As Rhode Islanders experience changes to their employment or income levels, we want them to know we are here to help,” said HealthSource RI Director Lindsay Lang. “We are fortunate that under the leadership of Governor Raimondo our state has one of the lowest rates of uninsured in the country, but as we navigate the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, we want to be sure that our friends and neighbors continue to have access to health insurance. We are hoping to spread the word about special enrollment periods that Rhode Islanders may qualify for.” Click below for our fact sheet.

Read our Fact Sheet

In addition to the SEP for loss of health coverage, HealthSource RI has adopted a limited-time (SEP), following Governor Raimondo’s State of Emergency declaration in response to the potential growth of Coronavirus (COVID-19). This limited-time SEP will allow uninsured Rhode Islanders to purchase coverage through April 15, 2020.

Media Contact
Robin Dionne – Chief Public Affairs Officer
Email: Robin.Dionne@exchange.ri.gov
Phone: 401-474-7633

The post Special Enrollment Period (SEP) available to Rhode Islanders losing employer-sponsored health coverage first appeared on HealthSource RI.

Need health insurance in 2020? Now’s the time to pick or renew your plan

Christian Vialva — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 17:55:39 +0000

HealthSource RI announces 2020 Open Enrollment period Nov. 1^st – Dec 31^st

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI (October 31, 2019) HealthSource RI, the state health insurance exchange, helps connect Rhode Islanders to a wide range of high quality, affordable health coverage options. Residents are encouraged to select and pay for a plan through HealthSource RI by December 23^rd for coverage beginning January 1, 2020. The last possible day to enroll and pay for a plan is December 31^st, but customers may experience a delay in receiving ID cards if they enroll after December 23^rd.

“HealthSource RI helps keep health care costs low while ensuring that Rhode Islanders have access to high-quality care,” said Governor Raimondo. “I urge Rhode Islanders to take time to explore HealthSource RI’s many coverage options this open enrollment.”

HealthSource RI offers unbiased support, helping Rhode Islanders choose from a variety of plans and determine if they qualify for financial help paying for their monthly premiums. HealthSource RI is here to help residents get covered so they can avoid paying a penalty at tax time next year, as health coverage is a requirement in the state of Rhode Island beginning January 1, 2020.

New features have been introduced to help Rhode Islanders with enrollment and plan selection at HealthSource RI this year, including a prescription drug coverage comparison tool that will allow customers to review all available plans to determine if their medication is covered and what the cost is. Additionally, visitors to the HSRI website can connect with customer service through a new live web chat tool. These features complement the existing Plan Comparison & Savings Tool, which helps customers estimate their premium and out-of-pocket costs and determine whether their doctor participates in HealthSource RI plans.

“We’re proud to connect Rhode Islanders with high quality health insurance,” said HealthSource RI Acting Director Lindsay Lang. “We have a range of options to fit everyone’s needs, and our Walk-in center now has extended hours to better serve our customers during Open Enrollment. Now that the individual mandate is here, it is more important than ever for Rhode Islanders to have access to affordable coverage.”

Rhode Islanders can sign up for coverage online at HealthSourceRI.com, over the phone at 1-855-840-HSRI, in person at the HealthSource RI Walk-In Center at 401 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence or in their community (call 211 to find help nearby).

Customers can save time by scheduling an appointment at HealthSource RI’s Walk-In Center by visiting HealthSourceRI.com or by calling 1-844-602-3468.

HealthSource RI is also holding Enrollment Fairs on Tuesday, November 12 and Thursday, December 12 at Rhode Island Shriners’ Imperial Room at One Rhodes Place in Cranston. There are also other enrollment events in communities across Rhode Island. The full schedule is available on HealthSourceRI.com/events.

Small businesses can purchase health coverage year-round through HealthSource RI for Employers. HealthSource RI’s small business program is among the top in the nation, serving over 800 small employers or ten percent of the small group market. For more information, visit HealthSourceRI.com/Employers.

The post Need health insurance in 2020? Now’s the time to pick or renew your plan first appeared on HealthSource RI.

Rhode Island Health Insurance Premiums Significantly Reduced for 2020

Christian Vialva — Mon, 16 Sep 2019 14:12:36 +0000

Rhode Island Health Insurance Premiums Significantly Reduced for 2020

On average, many consumers of individual market insurance will see decreases in premiums from 2019.
Overall, 2020 premiums will be $15,566,000 lower than what insurers asked OHIC to approve.
Since 2012, OHIC has saved Rhode Island consumers over $273million through the rate review process.

CRANSTON, R.I. – Health insurance premium rates for 2020 have been approved by Rhode Island’s Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner (OHIC). Overall, OHIC saved Rhode Islander’s $15,566,000 by cutting insurer’s proposed rate increases. Notably, the Rhode Island 2020 rates for individual market plans had an overall average decrease compared to rates last year, due in large part to the upcoming implementation of a statewide reinsurance program which Governor Raimondo announced the approval of this morning.

This reinsurance program, championed by Governor Raimondo, approved by the General Assembly, and developed by HealthSource RI, originated as a recommendation from a broad-based RI Market Stability Workgroup. The program is designed to pay for some of the most expensive insurance claims, resulting in lower premiums for consumers. This year during the rate review process insurers were asked to submit rates with reinsurance, and without. Without the reinsurance program, average individual rates would have increased up to 7% higher than 2019 rates. With the reinsurance program, many Rhode Islanders on the individual market will be paying less in premiums in 2020 than they did in 2019.

“It is critical for Rhode Islanders to have access to quality, affordable health insurance options, and this reinsurance program is helping to make that possible.” Governor Raimondo said. “We are thrilled that as premiums continue to increase across the country, many Rhode Islanders on the individual market will actually see their premiums go down.”

Governor Raimondo included the reinsurance program in her 2020 budget which was approved by the General Assembly in June. In order to be implemented, Rhode Island needed to submit an innovation waiver to the federal government, which the US Department of Health and Human Services has approved this past week. Similar programs have successfully been implemented in other states, reducing the price increase of plans on the individual market and saving consumers thousands of dollars.

“HealthSource RI is proud to have worked with Governor Gina Raimondo and OHIC to develop this reinsurance program, which will result in lowered premiums and increased access to high quality affordable coverage for Rhode Islanders,” said HealthSource RI Director Zach Sherman. “With so many federal challenges to the ACA, it is critical that we work together to protect our customers. This program will bring relief to those customers who have seen the biggest increase over the past two years, many of whom are middle-income families and sole proprietors.” Protecting Consumers • Ensuring Solvency • Engaging Providers • Improving the System

In Rhode Island, for 2020, the large group market had the biggest overall rate increases with the lowest change being 8.1% (United Healthcare and Blue Cross Blue Shield) and the highest increase being 10.6% (Tufts Health Plan). The small group market rate changes varied, with the lowest being a decrease of .09% (Neighborhood Health Plan) and the largest being an increase of 11% (Tufts Health Plan). Many factors contribute to the continued growth in insurance premiums, including policy decisions at the federal level, but the main driver continues to be the rising costs of medical care.

“Rhode Island has made significant strides in controlling costs this past year.” said Health Insurance Commissioner Marie L. Ganim. “Alongside premium savings through OHIC’s rate review process, the passage of the reinsurance program in the state budget is critical for families and sole proprietor businesses who receive no financial assistance to pay for their health insurance premiums. Although we have been able to reduce rate increases by $15,566,000 in 2020, we know that high health insurance costs remain a burden for individuals and companies in the state. OHIC will continue to employ innovative solutions to transform the health care system and control costs for Rhode Island consumers.”

Rhode Island remains the only state with an insurance commissioner who focuses specifically on health care.

OHIC is dedicated to protecting consumers; guarding the solvency of health insurers; encouraging the fair treatment of health care providers; and improving the health care system. Examples of OHIC’s pro-consumer work include:

An annual cap on increases in hospital prices paid by health insurers which saves insured consumers money;
This May, the OHIC created fund at the Rhode Island Foundation announced $2.6 million in grants to six nonprofits to help prevent mental health and substance use disorders across the state.
Saving consumers nearly $1.5 million dollars in 2018 and 2019 by assisting them with insurance complaint resolution. So far, in 2019 alone, we have helped save consumers $541,120.

OHIC’s rate review process is a part of the office’s efforts to control employer and consumer premium growth in Rhode Island. Consumer protection and affordability continue to be core tenets of OHIC’s mission.

2020 Individual Market Rate Summary:

Weighted Average Overall Rate Requested and Approved Insurer

2020 –

Requested

2020 –

Approved

BCBSRI

– .1%

– 1.5%

NHPRI

1.7%

.2%

2020 Small Group Market Rate Summary:

Weighted Average Overall Rate Requested and Approved Insurer	2020 – Requested	2020 – Approved
BCBSRI	5.6%	4.5%
NHPRI	– .09%	– .09%
UnitedHealthcare (HMO)	10.6%	7.5%
UnitedHealthcare (PPO)	10%	6.8%
Tufts Health Plan (HMO)	6.7%	6.7%
Tufts Health Plan (PPO)	11%	11%

2020 Large Group Market Rate Summary:

Weighted Average Overall Rate Requested and Approved Insurer	2020 – Requested	2020 – Approved
BCBSRI	9.6%	8.1%
UnitedHealthcare	9.4%	8.1%
Tufts Health Plan (HMO)	9.6%	9.6%
Tufts Health Plan (PPO)	10.6%	10.6%

The post Rhode Island Health Insurance Premiums Significantly Reduced for 2020 first appeared on HealthSource RI.

Director Sherman to Leave HealthSource RI

Christian Vialva — Fri, 30 Aug 2019 14:18:18 +0000

Zach Sherman, Director of HealthSource RI (HSRI) since 2015, will be leaving the state’s health insurance marketplace on September 20, 2019. Director Sherman has been with HSRI since 2015, and has been involved with the implementation of the Affordable Care Act in Rhode Island since 2011. Under Sherman’s leadership, HSRI’s individual and family enrollment increased 11% from 2017-2019, a period during which enrollment through the federal marketplace fell by 9%. Director Sherman has accepted the position of Executive Director of the recently established Pennsylvania Health Insurance Exchange Authority, which is based in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

“I am proud to have been a part of the state’s efforts to achieve universal coverage and to protect access to affordable coverage,” Sherman said. “As a result of Governor Raimondo’s leadership, we have lowered the uninsured rate by nearly two thirds, resulting in more than 96% of Rhode Islanders with coverage. HSRI’s commitment to customer service, our extensive statewide outreach and community engagement initiatives, and our mission-driven staff have been a big part of this success and it has been an honor to be a part of it.”

“A record number of Rhode Islanders have access to affordable health care as a direct result of Zach’s service to our state,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo. “Under his leadership, we’ve made significant progress reducing our uninsured rate and have improved HealthSource’s engagement with its customers. I’m grateful for his years of dedication to the people of Rhode Island, and I wish him the best of luck in his next venture.”

HealthSource RI’s Chief of Staff, Lindsay Lang, will serve as interim director during the search process for a permanent director.

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HealthSource RI enrollments up by nearly 2,000 customers as RI’s uninsured rate reaches all-time low

Christian Vialva — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 18:45:21 +0000

Only 3.7% of Rhode Islanders lack health insurance

According to the latest Rhode Island’s Health Information Survey, only 3.7% of Rhode Islanders were uninsured in 2018, down from 4.2% in 2016.
HealthSource RI’s individual and family enrollments increased by 1,849. This Open Enrollment, 32,486 customers enrolled and paid compared to 30,637 last year.
The amount of financial assistance brought into Rhode Island to make health coverage more affordable increased by nearly a million dollars, to $8.35 million in January 2019, compared to $7.5 million in January 2018.
HealthSource RI’s competitive marketplace offers the 3rd lowest-cost benchmark plan nationwide in 2019.
HealthSource RI overhauled its website to provide tools that were clear, mobile friendly, and available in both Spanish and English. Visits to the site’s Plan Comparison & Savings Tool doubled this year as more shoppers used it to quickly understand their coverage options.
Governor Raimondo’s 2020 budget proposal includes initiatives to keep health insurance affordable and to protect Rhode Island’s nation leading coverage levels.

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (February 25, 2019) — The percentage of Rhode Island residents without health insurance has reached an all-time low. According to the state’s latest Health Information Survey (HIS), over 1 million Rhode Islanders have health insurance for the first time ever and only 3.7% (see Figure 1) were uninsured in 2018. Rhode Island’s uninsured rate has decreased by nearly two thirds since the Affordable Care

Act (ACA) was implemented and today it is among the lowest in the nation. The HIS was conducted by phone and completed during June through December of 2018. The margin of error is approximately +/- 0.7%.

Despite lagging enrollment rates in most of the country, HealthSource RI (HSRI) enrollments increased by nearly 2,000 customers in 2019. As of January 31, 2019, 32,486 customers had enrolled and paid for 2019 health coverage through HSRI. This is 1,849 more customer than the 30,637 enrolled at the same time last year (see Figure 2). HealthSource RI’s renewal rate also increased in 2019. Eighty percent of customers came back to purchase coverage, a 4% increase from the year before.

“The results are in: The Affordable Care Act is working in Rhode Island,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo. “More than 1 million Rhode Islanders have insurance for the first time ever, our uninsured rate is the lowest it’s ever been, and HealthSource RI offers some of the most affordable plans in the country. But the Trump Administration’s dangerous policies put our progress at risk. It’s critical that we protect the ACA and continue our work until every single Rhode Islander has quality, affordable health insurance.”

Governor Raimondo’s budget proposal contains initiatives to contain premium increases and stabilize Rhode Island’s markets. These initiatives include consumer protections against predatory ‘junk’ plans, a reinsurance program and a shared responsibility requirement penalty.

HealthSource RI has the third-lowest benchmark plan nationwide in 2019. The benchmark plan is the second-lowest cost Silver plan available and determines the amount of financial assistance or Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTC) customers receive.

Premium tax credits continued to protect a majority of HealthSource RI’s customers from rising health insurance rates. In January 2019, HealthSource RI customers qualified for more than $8.3 million in financial assistance to make their premiums more affordable, compared to $7.5 million in January 2018 and $5.2 million in January 2017. That’s an increase of nearly a million dollars from last year and an increase of three million dollars from 2017. Eighty-one percent of HealthSource RI customers received financial assistance in 2019.

While customers who receive financial assistance have largely been insulated from premium increases, middle class families and the smallest businesses don’t receive tax credits and as a result, have to pay for the full cost of premium increases. Since 2017, premiums for those who don’t receive financial assistance have increased by 26.4% (see Figure 3).

HealthSource RI Director, Zachary Sherman, says there is a lot to celebrate and even more to protect.

“I’m excited we were able to connect even more Rhode Islanders with quality health insurance and the financial assistance to pay for it,” said HealthSource RI Director Zachary W. Sherman. “It is clear that the improvements we made to the enrollment process paid off this year, a testament to the flexibility that comes with having local control of our operations. We have nearly achieved universal coverage in Rhode Island, which means we have far to fall if the policies coming out of DC are successful. The proposals put forth by Governor Raimondo will go a long way towards making sure that doesn’t happen.”

To mitigate customer confusion and ensure customers picked the best plan for them, HealthSource RI revised its Plan Comparison & Savings Tool, launched a redesigned, mobile friendly website, and released Spanish language versions of all of its online tools and materials. During the 2019 Open Enrollment period, HSRI saw 103,383 visits to the online savings tool, an increase of nearly 150% from 2018.

Although Open Enrollment for 2019 health coverage has ended, Special Enrollment Periods are available for individuals and families who go through life changes that affect their ability to get healthcare coverage. Those who experience a qualifying life event, such as moving to Rhode Island or losing employer-sponsored coverage, should contact HealthSource RI at 1-855-840-4774 or in-person at 401 Wampanoag Trail in East Providence. A full list of qualifying events and hours of operation can be found at healthsourceri.wpengine.com/sep.

Small employers who purchase coverage through HealthSource RI for Employers may enroll in health insurance coverage throughout the year at their regular renewal date.

The post HealthSource RI enrollments up by nearly 2,000 customers as RI’s uninsured rate reaches all-time low first appeared on HealthSource RI.

Only 10 days left for Rhode Islanders to purchase health insurance through HealthSource RI

Christian Vialva — Fri, 21 Dec 2018 22:25:48 +0000

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI (December 21, 2018) – Attention Rhode Islanders who need health insurance. There are less than 10 days remaining to purchase 2019 health insurance through HealthSource RI.

Rhode Islanders need to pick and pay for a plan by December 23^rd to guarantee they have uninterrupted health insurance starting January 1, 2019. December 31^st is the very last day to purchase 2019 coverage.

HealthSource RI has the lowest cost health insurance in the state. It’s an unbiased marketplace offering high quality coverage from multiple health insurance companies.

And now it’s easier than ever to pick the best plan. Rhode Islanders can visit HealthSource RI’s newly designed website at HealthSourceRI.com, plug in some basic information, and quickly compare their options.

When they’re ready to enroll, Rhode Islanders can sign up online (HealthSourceRI.com), over the phone (1-855-840-HSRI), in person (401 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence), or in their community (call 211 to find one on one help nearby).

In order to help more customers, HealthSource RI is open Saturday mornings from 9 am to noon in addition to its regular weekday hours (Monday – Friday, 8 am – 7 pm) throughout Open Enrollment. The last Saturday of Open Enrollment, December 29, the Contact Center will have extended hours from 9am – 5pm.

HealthSource RI serves more than 30,000 customers. Of those, over 26,000 receive financial help to purchase health insurance coverage. Between January and September of 2018, Rhode Islanders received over $72 million dollars in tax credits to lower their health insurance bills through HealthSource RI. More than 45% of our customers pay less than $100 a month for coverage.

The post Only 10 days left for Rhode Islanders to purchase health insurance through HealthSource RI first appeared on HealthSource RI.

HealthSource RI partnering with Lyft to enroll more Rhode Islanders in health coverage.

Christian Vialva — Thu, 20 Dec 2018 17:13:38 +0000

All Rhode Islanders have less than 2 weeks to enroll in coverage for 2019

PROVIDENCE, RI (December 20, 2018) – HealthSource RI, Rhode Island’s health insurance exchange, is partnering with Lyft, whose mission is to improve people’s lives with the world’s best transportation, to encourage thousands of drivers throughout the state to enroll in health coverage.

The partnership involves extensive outreach to Lyft’s drivers including an email campaign to drivers and promotion through online driver portals. This is the second year in a row where Lyft has partnered up with HealthSource RI to encourage health insurance enrollment. HealthSource RI director Zach Sherman says the arrangement will help the state reach even more residents who need health coverage.

“Most of the drivers for these ride sharing companies are self-employed, so they can’t receive affordable health coverage through their employer,” he notes. “These are the exact Rhode Islanders who could benefit the most from enrolling in health coverage through HealthSource RI. I’m excited to see this partnership continue.”

“We are committed to helping Lyft drivers pursue their goals,” said Tyler George, New England General Manager, Lyft. “We’re excited to partner again with HealthSource RI on this initiative to ensure all Rhode Islanders have the information necessary to sign up for health insurance this year.”

Lyft drivers, and any other Rhode islanders who need coverage in 2019, need to act fast to enroll in coverage, or they’ll miss the deadline. Rhode Islanders must pick and pay for a plan by December 23^rd to guarantee they have health insurance coverage on January 1.

There are many other ways to get help choosing a plan for 2019. Rhode Islanders can enroll or renew their coverage online at HealthSourceRI.com, or call the Contact Center at 1-855-840-4774. In order to help more customers, HealthSource RI is taking calls on Saturday mornings from 9 am to noon in addition to its regular weekday hours (Monday-Friday, 8 am- 7 pm) throughout Open Enrollment.

Rhode Islanders who prefer to receive in-person assistance can call 1-844-602-3468 to schedule an appointment at the Walk-In Center in East Providence, or call 2-1-1 to find a Navigator in their community. HealthSource RI is also holding enrollment assistance events in communities across Rhode Island. The full schedule is available on HealthSourceRI.com.

The post HealthSource RI partnering with Lyft to enroll more Rhode Islanders in health coverage. first appeared on HealthSource RI.

It’s Time to Start Shopping for Health Insurance

Christian Vialva — Mon, 29 Oct 2018 19:34:17 +0000

HealthSource RI offers the cheapest insurance in RI, nearly half of customers pay less than $100 per month for coverage

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI (October 29, 2018) – Rhode Islanders: it’s time to put health insurance on your shopping list. Individuals and families looking for coverage starting January 1, 2019 should pick and pay through HealthSource RI by December 23.

“HealthSource RI has the cheapest health insurance in Rhode Island, and I’m proud of the work we’ve done to keep costs as low as possible,” said Governor Raimondo. “I urge Rhode Islanders looking for coverage to explore HealthSource RI’s quality, affordable options.”

And now it’s easier than ever to pick the medical and dental coverage from Rhode Island’s leading insurance companies. Rhode Islanders can visit HealthSource RI’s new and improved English and Spanish websites at HealthSource RI.com, plug in some basic information, and quickly compare their options and estimate their savings.

“This Open Enrollment our aim is to expand access to health coverage to those who do not have it by allowing Rhode Islanders to enroll how they want, when they want and where they want,” said HealthSource RI Director Zach Sherman. “We also want to remind folks that health insurance costs more without us. Not only do eight out of ten customers receive financial help to pay for their health insurance, nearly half of our customers pay less than $100 dollars a month for high-quality coverage.”

HealthSource RI serves more than 30,000 individuals and families. Between January and September of 2018, Rhode Islanders received over $72 million dollars in tax credits to lower their monthly health insurance bills through HealthSource RI. The average subsidized customer receives about $300 dollars to make coverage more affordable and pays roughly $118 dollars each month after tax credits.

When ready to enroll, Rhode Islanders can sign up online(HealthSourceRI.com), over the phone (1-855-840-HSRI), in-person at the HealthSource RI Walk-In Center (401 Wampanoag Trail, East Providence) or one-on-one in their community (call 211 to find help nearby).

Customers who want to skip the line at HealthSource RI’s Walk-In Center can make an appointment on HealthSourceRI.com or by calling 1-844-602-3468.

HealthSource RI is also holding Enrollment Fairs on November 13 and December 11 at the Crowne Plaza in Warwick and other enrollment events in communities across Rhode Island. The full schedule is available on HealthSourceRI.com/events.

Individuals and families also now have an easier way to pay their health insurance bills. HealthSource RI customers can visit any CVS Pharmacy location nationwide and pay their monthly invoice at the checkout by credit card, debit card or cash.

Small businesses looking for health insurance can purchase coverage year-round through HealthSource RI for Employers. HealthSource RI’s small business program is among the top in the nation, serving roughly 750 small employers or ten percent of the small group market. For more information, visit HealthSourceRI.com/Employers.

The post It’s Time to Start Shopping for Health Insurance first appeared on HealthSource RI.

State’s Market Stability Workgroup Recommends Immediate Action to Protect Rhode Islanders from Federal Threats to Health Insurance Access and Affordability

Christian Vialva — Wed, 27 Jun 2018 14:31:04 +0000

State’s Market Stability Workgroup Recommends Immediate Action to Protect Rhode Islanders from Federal Threats to Health Insurance Access and Affordability

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (June 27, 2018) – Rhode Island must act “without delay” to protect consumers from rising health coverage costs brought on by federal policy changes according to a report issued to Governor Raimondo by the state’s Market Stability Workgroup.

“People representing a wide variety of viewpoints engaged in lively discussions over the course of 8 weeks,” said Workgroup co-chair Bill Wray, Chief Risk Officer at the Washington Trust. “The fruits of those discussions are in this report. All of us – consumer advocates, business groups, health insurers and providers – were able to broadly agree on how best to protect Rhode Island’s insurance markets.”

The Workgroup – jointly convened by HealthSource RI (HSRI) and the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner (OHIC) – reached consensus around a package of three near-term actions which it recommends the state pursue “immediately.” The Workgroup notes an urgent need to act in time to impact the rate-setting process for 2020 premiums. The recommendations include:

Ensuring Rhode Island has authority to apply for a federal waiver to implement a reinsurance program;
Granting the state authority to regulate Short-Term Limited Duration health plans; and
Enacting a state-based shared responsibility requirement as soon as practicable and with broad-based support.

Following the release of the Workgroup’s recommendations, the General Assembly passed The Rhode Island Market Stability and Reinsurance Act (S-2934A/H-8351) to authorize HSRI and OHIC to seek a federal waiver through the ACA to establish a state reinsurance program. Reinsurance helps control insurance premiums by establishing a separate fund to pay for some of the most expensive claims for consumers insured in the Individual Market. This legislation authorizes the state to begin the federal waiver application process and does not commit any state funding. Federal savings realized by lower premiums and matching funding from other sources would be identified and proposed separately through 2019 state legislation.

In addition to the above near-term actions, the Workgroup noted that further work is needed, including work focused on how to fund and implement a state reinsurance program and how to best design a shared responsibility requirement; consideration for codifying consumer protections into state law; and work to address the underlying drivers of health care costs in the state.

“Without action at the state level, we will see much higher health insurance rate increases and lose much of the coverage gains we’ve achieved under the Affordable Care Act (ACA),” said Workgroup co-chair Steve Boyle, president of the Greater Cranston Chamber of Commerce.

Workgroup Process

In response to federal threats to Rhode Island’s health insurance markets, OHIC and HSRI convened the Market Stability Workgroup, charged with considering what, if any, measures the state should take to mitigate the potential impact of federal changes on health coverage costs, consumer choice, and access.

The Workgroup was established with three guiding principles: sustain a balanced risk pool; maintain a market that is attractive to carriers, consumers and providers; and protect coverage gains achieved under the ACA.

The Workgroup was made up of diverse stakeholders representing business groups, consumers, health insurers, healthcare providers and state legislators. The Workgroup held 8 weekly meetings from April – June.

The group considered recent federal actions that may undermine market stability in Rhode Island, including the repeal of the shared responsibility requirement penalty and the proposal to expand consumer access to non-ACA compliant plans. The Workgroup considered policy options aimed at protecting market stability. These options were categorized in terms of three key provisions of the ACA: affordability, shared responsibility, and insurance reforms.

Information on the Workgroup, including its members, meeting materials, and complete report with recommendations, can be found here.

Back to News Page

The post State’s Market Stability Workgroup Recommends Immediate Action to Protect Rhode Islanders from Federal Threats to Health Insurance Access and Affordability first appeared on HealthSource RI.

HealthSource RI teams up with CVS Health to make bill pay easier

Christian Vialva — Tue, 12 Jun 2018 17:55:01 +0000

HealthSource RI teams up with CVS Health to make bill pay easier

Customers can now pay their monthly health insurance bills with cash, debit or credit at any CVS Pharmacy; Governor Raimondo pledges to continue to protect the Affordable Care Act

EAST PROVIDENCE, RI – Governor Gina Raimondo joined HealthSource RI Director Zachary Sherman and Woonsocket-based CVS Health today to announce a new partnership aimed at further reducing Rhode Island’s uninsured rate by expanding options to pay for health insurance bills. The new partnership allows HealthSource RI customers to visit any CVS Pharmacy store nationwide and pay their monthly health insurance premium at the checkout. CVS Pharmacy will accept credit cards, debit cards and cash as payment.

Earlier in the day, Governor Raimondo and Sen. Joshua Miller met with healthcare providers, patients and community leaders at Providence Community Health Centers on a range of topics, including ongoing efforts in Washington to dismantle the Affordable Care Act and gut protections for Rhode Islanders with preexisting conditions. Following the meeting she called on the Legislature to take action on bills that would improve market stability and ensure that Rhode Island’s health insurance market works for all individuals and families.

“While Washington is talking about putting people’s lives at risk and gutting protections for Rhode Islanders with preexisting conditions, we are working to protect our state’s most vulnerable. To even suggest taking away coverage for preexisting conditions is not only intolerable, it’s immoral,” said Raimondo. “Here in Rhode Island we are committed to doing everything we can to make sure everyone has access to quality, affordable healthcare. I’m proud that Rhode Island is the first state with a marketplace that will allow customers to pay their HealthSource RI premium at any CVS nationwide.”

HealthSource RI Director Zachary Sherman says he’s thrilled about this chance to expand customer payment options. “At HealthSource RI our goal is to make it as easy as possible for Rhode Islanders to get and stay insured. We know that residents lose coverage every month because they’ve missed a bill payment or paid too late. This innovative partnership with CVS Health will increase the likelihood that our customers stay covered by enabling customers to pay their bills where they want, when they want and with the payment method that’s right for them.”

Before this partnership, HealthSource RI could only accept checks, money orders or electronic transfers and customers could only pay online, through the mail or at the HealthSource RI contact center.

Bill pay at CVS Pharmacy is no-cost and simple. HealthSource RI health insurance bills now include a special barcode that can be scanned at the CVS Pharmacy checkout. Customers can then pay their bill the way they pay for any other purchase at CVS Pharmacy. There’s even the option of splitting their monthly bill into smaller, manageable payments.

Individuals and families can enroll in coverage during HealthSource RI’s Open Enrollment period every fall or any time they experience a life change that affects their ability to have health coverage. Small employers who purchase coverage through HealthSource RI for Employers may enroll in health insurance coverage throughout the year or at their regular renewal date. Rhode Islanders can learn more or enroll at HealthSourceRI.com.

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HealthSource RI for Employers Announces Award Winning Speaker 617 – Patrick to Host Free June Webinar

Christian Vialva — Mon, 04 Jun 2018 18:21:55 +0000

HealthSource RI for Employers Announces Award Winning Speaker 617 – Patrick to Host Free June Webinar

Brokers will learn online techniques to grow their book of business.

Rumford, R.I. (June 4, 2018) – HealthSource RI for Employers announced today award winning keynote speaker, social media expert, sales trainer and consultant Patrick O’Malley of 617-PATRICK will host a free webinar for Rhode Island health insurance brokers. The webinar, titled “Online Referral and Sales Techniques to Grow Your Business,” will take place on Thursday, June 21 at noon.

“At HealthSource RI for Employers we want to see Rhode Island’s business community thrive,” said Zachary W. Sherman, Director of HealthSource RI. “Connecting employers with expert resources like Patrick O’Malley, is one of many innovative ways our full-service marketplace brings value to brokers and helps businesses grow.”

In partnership with HealthSource RI for Employers, O’Malley will focus on simple-to-implement online strategies proven to generate sales leads and referrals. Attendees will learn lesser known tricks to execute on LinkedIn and YouTube, as well as how to increase sales and effectively interact with clients and prospects.

“It is my passion to help businesses to grow through optimization,” said O’Malley. “I’m excited to partner with HealthSource RI for Employers to teach brokers the hottest social media tricks to enhance their business and catapult past competitors.”

HealthSource RI for Employers, recognized nationally as one of the best performing exchanges in the U.S and RI’s health insurance marketplace for small employers, offers a monthly webinar series for brokers on a broad range of topics. Interested brokers can register for upcoming webinars and view archives of past webinars at HealthSourceRI.com/Employers/broker-webinars/. Or, contact HealthSource RI’s specialized Business Engagement Team at 1-855-683-6757 for more information.

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State of Rhode Island Convenes Workgroup to Address Health Insurance Market Stability, Protect Against Threats to Coverage and Affordability

Christian Vialva — Tue, 17 Apr 2018 20:17:44 +0000

State of Rhode Island Convenes Workgroup to Address Health Insurance Market Stability, Protect Against Threats to Coverage and Affordability

Without state-level action, health insurance premiums and hospital charity care will increase; middle class families and small businesses are likely to struggle to afford health coverage

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (April 17, 2018) – HealthSource RI (HSRI) and the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner (OHIC) today announced the establishment of the Market Stability Workgroup charged with determining state-level solutions to keep Rhode Island’s health insurance markets stable. The federal government’s recent decision to end cost-sharing subsidy payments and other attempts by the Trump administration to dismantle the Affordable Care Act (ACA) jeopardize the progress Rhode Island has made in recent years under the health law. The Workgroup’s diverse stakeholders will identify and propose sensible, state-based policy options to protect the gains Rhode Island has made under the ACA.

“No matter what happens in Washington, providing access to high-quality, affordable health coverage to all Rhode Islanders is our main priority,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo. “Rhode Island has embraced the ACA and as a result, we’ve seen huge progress in the form of lower cost premiums and fewer uninsured residents. The recommendations of the Market Stability Workgroup will help protect our market against Washington’s actions.”

The Workgroup will hold its first meeting on Wednesday, April 18 at 8:00 a.m. and aims to meet as many as eight times through early June. This timeline will allow the Workgroup to weigh policy options that would lower costs, including the pursuit of a federal innovation waiver. Other potential recommendations would likely need to be acted upon well before the start of the 2019 health insurance coverage year.

The Workgroup will be co-chaired by Stephen Boyle and Bill Wray. Boyle is Chair of Rhode Island’s Health Insurance Advisory Council and President of The Greater Cranston Chamber of Commerce. Wray chairs HSRI’s Advisory Board, was formerly the Chief Operating Officer at Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island, and is currently the Chief Risk Officer at The Washington Trust. The Workgroup is comprised of the following additional members:

Cristina Amedeo, Managing Director of UW 2-1-1 & The POINT, United Way of Rhode Island
Gayle Goldin, Senator, Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services
Jane Hayward, President & Chief Executive Officer, Rhode Island Health Center Association
Janet Raymond, Senior Vice President of Economic Development and Operations, Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce
John Gregory, President & Chief Executive Officer, Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce
Joshua Miller, Senator, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Human Services
Kim Keck, CFA, President & Chief Executive Officer, Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island
Larry Warner, MPH, Strategic Initiative Officer, Rhode Island Foundation
Peter Hollmann, MD, Chief Medical Officer, Brown Medicine
Peter Marino, President & Chief Executive Officer, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island
Ralph Coppola, Senior Advisor, Meridien Financial Group
Samuel Salganik, Attorney and Health Policy Analyst, Rhode Island Parent Information Network, Inc.
Sue Pearlmutter, Interim Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Rhode Island College
Susan Storti, PhD, RN, President & Chief Executive Officer, Substance Use and Mental Health Leadership Council of Rhode Island
Teresa Paiva Weed, President, Hospital Association of Rhode Island
Members of the Rhode Island House of Representatives invited

“Healthcare costs are a significant investment for employers across Rhode Island” said Boyle. “Market instability endangers affordability and accessibility of healthcare, and undermines efforts to foster a prosperous business climate in our state.

“In response to the ACA, the state brought together an effective coalition that resulted in more Rhode Islanders having access to health insurance than ever before”, said Wray. “In light of changes at the federal level, it’s time for the public and private sectors to come together once again, to ensure that our citizens continue to have access to quality healthcare at reasonable prices.”

Market Stability Workgroup meeting materials will be available on the Secretary of State’s website.

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HealthSource RI for Employers offering Free Webinars to Help Brokers Grow their Business

Christian Vialva — Thu, 12 Apr 2018 20:14:29 +0000

HealthSource RI for Employers offering Free Webinars to Help Brokers Grow their Business

Monthly, half hour webinars are open to all brokers in Rhode Island.

RUMFORD, R.I. (April 12, 2018) – HealthSource RI for Employers is committed to keeping the broker community up to date. That’s why the state’s health insurance marketplace for small employers is offering a series of monthly broker webinars.

“Providing value to Rhode Island businesses is core to our mission at HealthSource RI for Employers,” said Zachary W. Sherman, Director of HealthSource RI. “Through our free webinar series, we aim to empower brokers by giving them the information they need to best serve the employer community.”

The webinars are open to all brokers offering Rhode Island insurance products, whether or not they are certified to sell coverage through HealthSource RI for Employers. To date, webinars have shared tips specific to Rhode Island brokers; a quick tutorial on the differences between HSAs, HRAs and FSAs, an overview of HealthSource RI for Employer’s Full Choice, defined contribution model and details about offering a comprehensive benefits package with HealthSource RI’s range of ancillary products.

HealthSource RI for Employers will leverage subject matter experts to bring Rhode Island brokers the best, most relevant educational experiences possible. In the next broker webinar, scheduled for April 19 at 11am, HealthSource RI for Employers will team up with Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island to discuss “HMOs, then and now.” Neighborhood will also be giving a $100 restaurant gift card to a randomly selected attendee.

Liz McClaine, Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island’s Product Manager, Commercial Products, says working with HealthSource RI for Employers makes perfect sense when it comes to reaching the local broker community. “Neighborhood’s ongoing partnership with HealthSource RI demonstrates our collective commitment to working with brokers and giving them the resources they need to serve small employers throughout Rhode Island. We are excited to offer our expertise for this initiative.”

Webinars will take place on the third Thursday of the month. Future topics include:

Navigating the Ever-Changing Healthcare Landscape, hosted by Chris Condeluci, Principal and Sole Shareholder at CC Law & Policy PLLC
Building Your Business in the Digital Age, hosted by Patrick O’Malley, Owner of 617-PATRICK Social Media Training and Consulting

Interested brokers can register for upcoming webinars and view archives of past webinars at HealthSourceRI.com/employers. Or, contact HealthSource RI’s specialized Business Engagement Team at 1-855-683-6757 for more information.

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HealthSource RI sees 5% enrollment increase and nation leading lowest benchmark plan cost

Christian Vialva — Mon, 19 Mar 2018 20:03:45 +0000

HealthSource RI sees 5% enrollment increase and nation leading lowest benchmark plan cost

State-based marketplace sees rise in enrollment of “young invincibles”

• In Rhode Island, individual and family paid enrollments increased by five percent in 2018, among the largest increases in the country.

• The marketplace saw over 8,000 new enrollees, over 40 percent more than the previous year. About 35 percent of new 2018 customers were “young invincibles” age 18-34, up from approximately 25 percent compared to HealthSource RI’s 2017 population.

• HealthSource RI’s competitive marketplace offers the lowest cost benchmark plan nationwide in 2018.

• The amount of financial assistance brought into Rhode Island to make health coverage more affordable increased by 46 percent, to $7.4 million, in January 2018, compared to January 2017.

• The average subsidized customer saw steady rates in 2018 due to the protective effect of their subsidies rising to offset premium increases.

• HealthSource RI’s targeted customer education and new Savings Tool helped shoppers make wise decisions in 2018, leveraging their increased financial assistance and opting for Gold plans in many cases.

EAST PROVIDENCE, R.I. (March 19, 2018) — HealthSource RI today announced a 5 percent increase in individual and family customers at the end of the 2018 Open Enrollment period. As of January 31, 2018, 30,637 individuals enrolled and paid for 2018 health coverage through HealthSource RI, compared to 29,224 in 2017 (see Figure 1).

HealthSource RI saw a 45 percent increase in new customers to the state-based marketplace this year, up from 5,543 individuals in 2017 to 8,038 in 2018. About 35 percent of new 2018 customers were “young invincibles” age 18-34, up from approximately 25 percent compared to HealthSource RI’s 2017 population.

“Young invincibles are good for the overall stability of the market as they are typically healthier and therefore utilize less medical services,” said HealthSource RI Director Zachary W. Sherman. “I am encouraged we saw a big jump in overall new customers this year and that so many younger Rhode Islanders decided to enroll in high-quality, affordable HealthSource RI coverage for the first time.”

Rhode Islanders younger than 45 years old makeup about half of 2018 customers, as shown in Figure 2. Enrollment by gender remains fairly consistent in 2018. As of January 31, the gender breakdown was 54 percent (16,513 individuals) female and 46 percent (14,124 individuals) male.

There was a notable shift in plan enrollment towards Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island (NHPRI), with market share rising from about 50 percent in 2017 to 70 percent (21,525 individuals) this year. This trend was most pronounced in new customers, who chose NHPRI over 80 percent of the time. The other 30 percent (9,112 individuals) of 2018 HealthSource RI customers enrolled in health coverage from Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island (BCBSRI). The shift was primarily driven by NHPRI’s lower prices.

In response to the federal administration’s decision to end Cost Sharing Reduction (CSR) payments to insurers, BCBSRI and NHPRI were asked to focus their premium rate increases on Silver-level plans sold on HealthSource RI’s individual market. Because the cost of these plans determines the dollar amount of federal tax credits relative to consumers’ income, the premium rate increases on these plans were absorbed by the tax credit for most customers. Due to HealthSource RI and the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner’s protective state-based actions, considerably more federal financial assistance will be provided to Rhode Island marketplace customers. In January 2018, $7.5 million in financial assistance was provided to HealthSource RI customers to make their premiums more affordable,compared to $5.1 million in January 2017, a 46 percent increase.

“The Affordable Care Act is working in Rhode Island. Nearly every person in the state now has health insurance, and the premiums on HealthSource RI are among the lowest in the country,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo. “Washington’s recent actions will undermine our great progress, putting us at risk of unnecessary price increases, instability and fewer plan choices. It is our responsibility to look for ways for the state to protect against federal threats to coverage and affordability.”

Despite increases in Silver plan premiums, HealthSource RI has the lowest benchmark plan nationwide in 2018. The benchmark plan is the second-lowest cost Silver plan available, and determines the amount of financial assistance customers receive. However, the phenomena of many Silver plans costing more than Gold led to a shift in 2018 enrollment by metal levels (Figure 3). HealthSource RI saw a significant reduction in unsubsidized Silver customers, as well as a drop in Silver customers who only receive tax credits. Ninety-two percent of unsubsidized 2017 Silver-level customers, who actively selected a 2018 plan, chose a different metal level this year. Most CSR eligible customers stayed in Silver plans since their tax credit absorbed most of the premium increase. Most significantly, 22 percent of HealthSource RI customers selected a Gold plan for 2018, up from 12 percent in 2017.

To mitigate customer confusion and ensure customers picked the best plan for them, HealthSource RI introduced a new Savings Tool to make it easier to understand health coverage options. This quick quote tool helped Rhode Islanders consider their total health needs, from premium price and financial assistance to maximum out-of-pocket cost and provider networks. During Open Enrollment, over 60,000 sessions from more than 40,000 unique users took place on the Savings Tool. HealthSource RI also rolled-out a series of educational videos aimed to simplify the decision making process.

“In a year of uncertainty, state-based marketplaces like HealthSource RI saw higher enrollment and retention than HealthCare.Gov states due to our ability to nimbly adapt and serve our local communities,” Sherman added. “By enabling and educating our customers, many made the informed decision to leverage their increased purchasing power which led to higher enrollment in richer benefit plans at no additional cost.”

Eighty-two percent of HealthSource RI customers received financial assistance in 2018, which is essentially unchanged from 2017. Of those receiving financial help, 50 percent (15,349 individuals) received both tax credits and CSRs and 32 percent (9,810 individuals) received only tax credits, while the remaining 18 percent (5,478 individuals) did not receive financial help.

Though Open Enrollment for 2018 health coverage has ended, HealthSource RI may be able to offer a Special Enrollment Period to individuals and families who go through life changes that affect their ability to get healthcare coverage. Those who experience a qualifying life event, like moving to Rhode Island or losing employer sponsored coverage, should contact HealthSource RI at 1-855-840-4774 or in-person at 401 Wampanoag Trail in East Providence. A full list of qualifying events and hours of operation can be found at www.HealthSourceRI.com/sep.

Small employers who purchase coverage through HealthSource RI for Employers may enroll in health insurance coverage throughout the year at their regular renewal date.

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OHIC, HealthSource RI adopt new 2018 rates due to end of federal payments

Christian Vialva — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 14:36:57 +0000

OHIC, HealthSource RI adopt new 2018 rates due to end of federal payments

Because of action taken by the President, individual market rates for 2018 will include a “Trump Tax”

CRANSTON, R.I. (October 25, 2017) – Acting in response to the Trump Administration’s abrupt decision to end Cost Sharing Reduction (CSR) payments to insurers that support reduced out-of-pocket costs for low income consumers, the Office of the Health Insurance Commissioner (OHIC) has approved new health insurance rates for 2018.

President Trump’s decision to end the CSR payments was reckless, and represents the latest attempt by the Administration to sabotage the Affordable Care Act (ACA). The new rates amount to an 18%-20% increase on Silver-level plans sold on HealthSource RI’s (HSRI) individual market, though OHIC and HSRI are working to redirect other federal subsidies to offset premium increases.

“We have done everything we can to minimize additional costs for consumers resulting from this shortsighted action on the part of the President,” said Rhode Island Health Insurance Commissioner Marie Ganim. “But I want to make it very clear that the President’s decision to end these payments has already created unnecessary turmoil and threatened the stability of our health insurance market.”

CSR plans were included in the ACA, and were meant to help insurers offer plans with reduced copays and deductibles – known as “cost-sharing” – to individuals and families who earn between 138% and 250% of the federal poverty level.

Although the federal CSR payments have stopped, insurers are still required by the ACA to offer plans with reduced cost-sharing to those who qualify. Without the CSR payments, insurers who sell plans on HSRI’s individual market had to raise premium rates to make up for the loss or else risk becoming insolvent – effectively creating a “Trump tax” on health plans in 2018.

Health insurance rates for 2018 had previously been approved by OHIC in August, but those rates had been calculated based on continued CSR payments. Because the Trump administration had been threatening to suspend CSR payments for several months, OHIC and HSRI were prepared with a contingency plan.

OHIC directed Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Rhode Island and Neighborhood Health Plan of Rhode Island – the two insurers offering individual plans on the state-based exchange – to prepare rates that factored in the loss of CSR payments.

The insurers were asked to focus their premium rate increases on Silver-level plans sold on HSRI’s individual market. Because the cost of these plans determines the dollar amount of federal ACA tax credits relative to consumers’ income, the premium rate increases on these plans will be absorbed by the ACA tax credit for most HSRI customers.

Several other states are taking the same approach to protect as many consumers as possible. The increase in ACA tax credits will raise federal health care spending by approximately $194 billion over the next ten years, according to a Congressional Budget Office report release in August.

“Due to the Trump Administration’s irresponsible decision, some customers will see significant changes to their health coverage options. We are encouraging customers to actively shop when Open Enrollment begins on November 1,” Director Sherman said. “To make the health coverage purchasing process easier, HealthSource RI is launching a new Savings Calculator to help Rhode Islanders better understand their options. This tool allows individuals and families to factor in their desired maximum out-of-pocket cost and expected health needs, among other things, which is even more critical as plan options will look different this Open Enrollment.”

Rhode Islanders with questions about 2018 Open Enrollment for individuals and families can contact HealthSource RI by phone at 1-855-840-4774 or in person at 401 Wampanoag Trail in East Providence Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM and Saturdays from 9 AM to 12 PM starting November 1, or visit www.HealthSourceRI.com.

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Rhode Island Comes Out Against Trump’s Latest Efforts to Dismantle the Affordable Care Act

Christian Vialva — Mon, 16 Oct 2017 15:35:53 +0000

CRANSTON, R.I. (October 13, 2017) – Last night, President Trump announced his intention to end health care cost-sharing reduction (CSR) subsidies. Without these CSRs, premiums will rise substantially over the currently approved rates for 2018. Eliminating CSR payments will have immediate, negative repercussions both in RI and across the nation – destabilizing the market and increasing rates. This reckless action on the part of President Trump is not a surprise, and the state has prepared a contingency plan.

“The Trump Tax could put Rhode Islanders’ lives at risk by forcing many families to choose between health coverage and the grocery bill,” said Governor Gina M. Raimondo. “The ACA is working in Rhode Island, but President Trump is determined to tear it apart. His cruel and immoral crusade to destroy our nation’s healthcare system is putting the lives of Rhode Islanders at risk. It puts people with pre-existing conditions at risk. It threatens treatment and recovery services for Rhode Islanders with substance use disorder. I’ve directed my team at HealthSource RI and in the Health Insurance Commissioner’s office to take every measure possible to minimize the impact on Rhode Island families, and they’ve already put plans to work. But let me be clear: middle class families are still going to feel the effects of the Trump Tax unless action is taken to override the President’s cruel, immoral and unnecessary actions.”

“Make no mistake: this callous action by the President poses a serious threat to many Rhode Island families,” said Rhode Island Health Insurance Commissioner Marie Ganim. “OHIC has been working with health insurers to structure premiums for 2018 in an attempt to minimize the impact on Rhode Island families. We hope that much of the increase in rates will be absorbed by ACA tax credits, which would save Rhode Island consumers from bearing the brunt of the cost associated with this disastrous decision. Our intention here is to do everything we can to not raise Rhode Islander’s costs.”

“Financial assistance is key to making healthcare affordable – for many customers it’s often the difference between having coverage, and going without,” said Zachary W. Sherman, Director of HealthSource RI. “The Trump Administration made a calculated decision to sabotage the upcoming Open Enrollment period and undermine the progress we’ve made through the successful implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Our state fully embraced the ACA, and as a result 96 percent of Rhode Islanders have coverage. HealthSource RI is committed to maintaining these gains and ensuring that individuals and families have access to high-quality, affordable health coverage.”

The action to defund CSRs is immediate, but it will not impact HealthSource RI customers this plan year—they will still receive the same health insurance at the same cost for the remainder of 2017. However, customers could see larger premium spikes and changes in benefits and coverage on plans taking effect in 2018 due to President Trump’s elimination of the CSRs.

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Release: R.I. Department of Administration Director Dibiase names Zachary Sherman as new HealthSource RI Director

Christian Vialva — Wed, 02 Mar 2016 19:29:28 +0000

Contact: Brenna McCabe, Public Information Officer, 401-464-1194

Providence, R.I. – Rhode Island Department of Administration Director Michael DiBiase today announced Zachary Sherman has been chosen as the new director to lead HealthSource RI, Rhode Island’s health insurance exchange. Sherman has been serving as acting director since November 2015.

“Zach has demonstrated outstanding leadership during his tenure at HealthSource RI, first as a key staffer during the start-up, then as Chief of Staff and more recently as Acting Director,” said Michael DiBiase, Department of Administration Director. “He has worked very closely with me and with former HealthSource RI Director Anya Rader Wallack to establish and enhance Rhode Island’s health insurance exchange. During a time of greatly constrained resources, Zach has shown strong management skills, meeting budget targets, growing enrollments and meeting service requirements. I am most pleased that HealthSource can continue connecting Rhode Islanders with affordable health insurance under Zach’s leadership.”

Sherman was an original member of the implementation team hired to design, develop and implement the exchange after the Rhode Island Health Benefits Exchange executive order was signed in 2011. He acted as the primary manager of exchange establishment activities in the lead up to HealthSource RI’s launch in October 2013.

Sherman was later hired in January 2015 as Chief of Staff by then-exchange director Anya Rader Wallack (now serving as Medicaid Director at the Executive Office of Health and Human Services). He was tasked with implementing Governor Gina Raimondo’s mandate to right-size the agency’s budget, stabilize operations, create a long-term financial sustainability plan, and to make the case for establishing HealthSource RI in statute. Sherman also served as interim Chief Financial Officer until a permanent chief financial officer was hired in March 2015.

Since November, Sherman has led HealthSource RI through its third open enrollment period, the launch of a new small business engagement team and the ongoing procurement of and transition to a new contact center. The division is preparing to release an open enrollment report later this month detailing significant progress in meeting enrollment targets and will be launching the new contact center in April.

“I’m honored to have been chosen to lead HealthSource RI,” said Zachary Sherman. “I look forward to building on the work we’ve already accomplished to drive down the uninsured rate, to connect Rhode Island families and employers with affordable coverage, and to improve the customer experience.”

Sherman holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tenn. He lives in Providence and is a native of Vermont.

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