A look inside insurance reform [Michigan Chronicle (MI)]

The Michigan Chronicle sat down with Blue Cross'Andy Hetzel, vice president of corporate communications, to learn more about the proposal to make Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan a non-profit mutual health insurer.

Q. What will the PA350 proposal fix?

A. Our regulatory system has been broken for a long time. This proposal will level what has been a very uneven playing field for health insurers and require us all to play by the same rules. That's a very good thing for Michigan consumers.

Q. What will be the biggest challenge for BCBSM in regard to this proposal?

A. Our biggest challenge will come if nothing changes. It seems that everything has changed since 1980, except the laws we've (BCBSM) been governed by.

Q. What will be the biggest challenge for your competitors?

A. Competitors are going to find a way not to like this proposal. Historically, the Michigan Association of Health Plans (MAHP) has tried to bleed as much blood from us as they can, rather than focus on what's best for Michigan consumers. What Michigan needs is a regulatory system that works and the consumer confidence that will come when all of Michigan's health insurers are treated fairly and operate under the same rules.

9. Why is BCBSM willing to consider a plan that is 25 times larger than any other contribution following a transition to a nonprofit mutual insurance company structure? Does this make dollars and sense?

A. BCBSM is not doing this for financial reasons. We want to do the right thing for the citizens of the state for the next two decades. This proposal will improve access to care and improve the overall health of Michigan residents, including at-risk kids and seniors.

Q. Why has the attorney general issued a concern that vulnerable citizens may not be protected under the proposal? And, as important, what will BCBSM do to safeguard citizens.

A. The attorney general, by nature of his mission, is and always should be concerned about these sorts of things. We stand ready to help him and others understand this proposal's potential to positively impact Michigan consumers. And we want to assure everyone that with this proposal, BCBSM will continue to offer access, affordability and support of our social mission today, tomorrow and in the future.

Andy Hetzel, vice president of corporate communications, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.