HHS funds states to develop IT system for health insurance exchanges

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced funding opportunities last week for states to design and implement the IT infrastructure needed to operate health insurance exchanges.

Starting in 2014, exchanges will help individuals and small employers shop for, select and enroll in affordable private health plans that fit their individual needs at competitive prices, the agency stated.

According to HHS, the “Early Innovators” grants will reward states that demonstrate leadership in developing consumer-based technologies and models for insurance eligibility and enrollment for exchanges.

Two-year grants will be awarded by February 15, 2011, to up to five states or coalitions of states for proposals that yield IT models and best practices to benefit all states. Funding, which will vary based on states’ proposals, will provide necessary resources to develop and establish systems that meet consumer and employer needs, HHS added.

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