First year of Ohio risk pool marked by challenges

With nearly 1,800 enrollees, Ohio’s high-risk health insurance pool is one of the biggest and most successful in the nation (Source: “Ohio's high-risk health insurance coverage faces challenges,” Cleveland Plain Dealer, Sept. 10, 2011).

But one year after its introduction, the cost of claims is higher than state official expected and the Ohio risk pool is raising prices and limiting enrollment. And according to a recently released report from the Government Accountability Office, low enrollment has plaqued risk pools in states across the country. The report found that about 21,000 people nationally have enrolled, far lower than initial projections.

“Factors contributing to low enrollment include the statutory requirement that enrollees be uninsured for 6 months prior to applying; premiums that may be unaffordable to many; and a lack of (risk pool) awareness,” the report concludes.