MCHO slated to become fifth ACA insurer in NH

Sept. 30--Maine Community Health Options said Monday it plans to expand its geographic footprint to all of New Hampshire, offering health insurance plans through the health exchange marketplace, starting in 2015.

MCHO, the fifth insurer planning to participate in the Obamacare exchange at healthcare.gov, had initially planned to offer policies in New Hampshire only to those living in Coos, Carroll, RockinghamStrafford counties, said spokesman Michael Gendreau.

If MCHO is approved, people can enroll starting Nov. 15 for plans that would go into effect Jan. 1, he said.

"We will be available to sell health plans in New Hampshire both off and on the health insurance exchange," Gendreau said.

He said he expects a decision on federal approval by mid-October. The federal government established the New Hampshire Health Insurance Marketplace under the Affordable Care Act.

Others planning to offer insurance through the marketplace are Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, Harvard-Pilgrim Health Care, Minuteman Health and Assurant Health.

"Competition is good for New Hampshire insurance markets, and it is good for New Hampshire consumers," state Insurance Commissioner Roger Sevigny said in an email. "We are pleased that the 2015 health insurance marketplace likely will feature five insurance companies and a variety of health insurance plans and provider networks."

Kevin Lewis, chief executive officer of MCHO, cited the "great benefits at affordable pricing to all people in New Hampshire. We offer a new model for health insurance, and people have responded positively.

"On the strength of our experience, we bring to New Hampshire desirable plan designs with an eye for improving health outcomes at lower costs to our members," he said.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services provided MCHO with $67.6 million in financing, with all but $2.8 million to be used to boost reserves to meet state and federal requirements for both Maine and New Hampshire combined.

Gendreau said that money can be used to pay insurance claims.

Robert Hillman, MCHO's chief operating officer, touted the broad provider network.

"This is an important hallmark for us, as we want to help ensure that people can get the health care they need within their community," he said. "Partnering with providers and patients is central to our mission of providing comprehensive, member-focused, and member-led health insurance benefits for individuals, families and businesses."

mcousineau@unionleader.com

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