HHS to recommend new plans for displaced ACA consumers

The Obama administration announced this week plans to steer consumers of plans that exited ACA marketplaces to remaining insurance companies (Source: “Government to pick plans for displaced health law customers,” Associated Press, Oct. 6, 2016).

But those consumers could get an unwelcome surprise if their new government-recommended plan differs from the plan in which they are currently enrolled. The backstop was outlined in an administration document circulating among insurers and state regulators. It also calls for reaching those "discontinued consumers" with a constant stream of reminders as the health law's 2017 sign-up season goes into full swing.

Open enrollment for HealthCare.gov starts Nov. 1 and ends Jan. 31.