Effective State Exchange Key to Lower Health Costs for Michigan Consumers

Media Releases

PIRGIM Education Fund

Ann Arbor, MI – Michigan policy-makers can address rising health care costs by implementing an effective health insurance exchange, according to the first in a new series of policy briefs released today by consumer education group PIRGIM Education Fund.  

“Michigan leaders have the flexibility to craft an exchange that enhances choice and competition,” said Meghan Hess, PIRGIM Education Fund Program Associate. “We hope to inform that process and ensure that the public interest is protected.” 

Today’s brief, which is the first in a series of seven that the organization plans to release, details steps policy-makers can take to ensure that the exchange is accountable to the public and operates in the best interests of consumers and businesses. 

“To succeed, this new health insurance marketplace must be run by and for Michigan businesses and consumers, not by and for the insurance lobby,” said Hess.

The remainder of the series will focus on creating an optimal state health insurance exchange, where consumers and small businesses can pool their buying power to leverage greater efficiency and lower health costs from insurers.

According to Hess, “States from Utah to Massachusetts have embraced the idea of competitive exchanges. Here in Michigan, we need to put the politics behind us and work together to rein in rising health care costs.”