HHS Holds CO-OP Conference Call

CO-OP program organizers are hoping the plans will use any profits they make to cut premiums, improve health benefits, improve the quality of health care and expand enrollment.

The federal government is offering loans for organizations that want to do the work needed to start CO-OPs and to help the organizations meet health plan solvency requirements.

Teleconference organizations are asking would-be CO-OP organizers to send questions in writing, in the Word format, to Anne Bollinger before the call starts.

Proposed CO-OP regulations are available here.

CO-OP funding opportunity information is available here.

“The statute provides loans to capitalize eligible prospective CO-OPs with a goal of having at least one CO-OP in each state,” officials say in a program description in the funding notice. “The statute permits the funding of multiple CO-OPs in any state, provided that there is sufficient funding to capitalize at least one CO-OP in each state. Congress provided budget authority of $3.8 billion for the program. The statute directs the [HHS] secretary to give priority to applicants that will offer CO-OP qualified health plans on a statewide basis, will use integrated care models, and have significant private support.”

Other CO-OP coverage from National Underwriter Life & Health:

• PPACA: HHS Drafts CO-OP Regs
• IRS: CO-OPs Can’t Lobby
• CCIIO Plows Ahead on Rate Review Process, CO-OPs
• PPACA: Feds Seek Comments on Nonprofit Health Plans
• Nonprofit Plan Advisory Board Announces Meeting
• Health Co-Ops Face Uncertain Future