Much of ACY’s health policy work this session has involved assuring that the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the design of Maryland’s Health Benefit Exchange meet the needs of Maryland’s children and families. This year’s bill, the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange Act of 2012, is the outgrowth of legislation passed last session requiring a number of studies to inform best practices regarding how the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange should function.
ACY worked closely with policy makers and co-chaired one of several advisory committees whose work was incorporated into Exchange Board Recommendations and ultimately the administration’s new Exchange legislation. What followed was a fluid and dynamic stakeholder process to strengthen the legislation in ways that will best serve all Marylanders—including children. ACY has been particularly involved with provisions related to the navigator program—which will assist children and their families and neighbors to find appropriate health coverage. We have also been working to make sure comprehensive pediatric and adult dental benefits are provided through the Exchange. ACY is pleased with the current version of the bill and looks forward to its passage.
