Brief Description: Expanding participation in state purchased health care programs.

Sponsors: Representatives Cody, Schual-Berke, Appleton, Morrell, Moeller, Green, Clibborn, Kenney, Upthegrove, Conway, Chase, Darneille, Haigh and Santos.

Hearing Date: 2/24/05

Staff: Dave Knutson (786-7146).

Background:

Currently, health carriers may cover subsidized or nonsubsidized enrollees in the Basic Health Plan. They are not required to cover both groups. Individuals who apply for coverage in the individual market are required to complete a health screen prior to acceptance by a health carrier. If the screen determines they are in the top eight percent of persons who are the most costly to treat, the health carrier may decline to offer them coverage in the individual market and refer them to the Washington state health insurance pool. There is no requirement that an individual applying for coverage through the basic Health Plan take a health screen as part of the application process.

Summary of Bill:

The Health Care Authority will solicit applications from health carriers for both subsidized and nonsubsidized Basic Health Plan enrollees. Individuals applying for Basic Health Plan coverage will take the individual market health screen prior to acceptance.

Appropriation: None.

Fiscal Note: Requested on February 17, 2005.

Effective Date: The bill takes effect 90 days after adjournment of session in which bill is passed.