ODI releases report on CHAT initiative

The Ohio Department of Insurance has released a final report on its CHAT (Choosing Healthplans All Together) initiative, a computer-based activity designed to gauge what uninsured Ohioans think should be offered in a “basic” health plan (Source: “Department Issues CHAT Report: Uninsured Ohioans Voice Opinions on What a Basic Health Plan Should Cover,” Ohio Department of Insurance News Release, April 6, 2009).

The report, “Ohio CHATS About Healthcare: Voices of the Uninsured,” found that “Ohio’s uninsured residents want meaningful coverage that is cost effective,” according to the news release.

In 18 three-hour sessions throughout the state from March to November last year, 177 participants were asked to use computer software to negotiate (individually and in groups) trade-offs to develop a basic health plan for all Ohioans. According to ODI, “Most CHAT participants agreed upon the following principles or values for a ‘basic’ health plan:”
• Affordability
• Quality
• Emphasis on prevention
• Inclusion of all aspects of health, including mental/behavioral and dental/vision benefits
• Exclusion of low-value interventions