Through 2015, HPIO will continue focus on several state policy priorities, including Access:  Ensuring timely access to comprehensive, integrated and appropriate health services.

The issue of access remains a high priority for policymakers, consumers and the public.  Now that Ohio policymakers have approved accepting federal dollars for Medicaid expansion, an estimated 275,000 Ohioans are newly eligible for Medicaid, effective January 1, 2014.  In addition, an estimated 390,000 uninsured Ohioans are eligible for subsidized health coverage through the new federal marketplace (Source:  Kaiser Family Foundation Fact Sheet, January 2014.  “How will the uninsured in Ohio fare under the Affordable Care Act?”)  However, questions remain as to how coverage will translate into access to health care services.

HPIO’s work in 2014 will continue to focus on ensuring that eligible Ohioans can access coverage (coverage and affordability) and that the health care system can provide services to this newly insured population and to those who already have coverage (workforce).

Our work will be informed by the HPIO Access Advisory Group, diverse stakeholders who will provide expertise and insights to HPIO staff on access issues; identify policy areas for HPIO attention/focus; advise on HPIO access-related products and events; and share learning and network. The group will meet two to three times throughout 2014.

Click here for a collection of access-related resources

For more information

If you are interested in learning more about HPIO’s Access Advisory Group, please contact Amy Rohling McGee, HPIO President