The document discusses key goals and functions of health insurance exchanges established under the Affordable Care Act. It outlines how exchanges are meant to distribute insurance, coordinate eligibility, set standards, and improve affordability and quality of care. Specific functions of exchanges include determining eligibility, creating standard benefit categories, enrolling individuals and businesses, certifying qualified health plans, and establishing consumer-focused websites and assistance programs. The document also raises issues around the role of exchanges in coordinating with Medicaid, regulating brokers and navigators, and incentivizing participation from small businesses.

1. Exchanges: A New State Composition NASHP 23rd Annual State Health Policy Conference October 4-6, 2010 Governor’s Office of Health Policy and Finance Trish Riley, Director www.maine.gov/gohpf