State Case Studies: Product Standardization in Small Group and Individual Insurance Markets


 

Publication Date: November 2009

Publisher: The Nelson A Rockefeller Institute of Government

Author(s):

Research Area: Health

Keywords: Health Insurance Reform; Product Standardization

Type: Report

Coverage: New Jersey Massachusetts Maryland

Abstract:

National health reform will rely on consumer choice and competition to control costs whether or not there is a public insurance option, according to this Institute report. Rational consumer choice, however, is difficult without standardizing health insurance plans, so that value can be easily compared. States may have to play a key role in such standardization.