(Hartford, CT) – The State of Connecticut formally announces five upcoming public forums on Health Insurance Exchange development to be conducted throughout the State during the months of April and May.   These forums will provide Connecticut residents an opportunity to give feedback on Exchange design as well as learn about the purpose and functions of an Exchange.  Meetings will be held in Hartford, New London, New Haven, Danbury, and Windham. 

Connecticut received federal funding in the Fall of 2010 to conduct research and analysis for the development of a health insurance exchange as required by the federal government.  An Exchange is a competitive marketplace for health insurance purchasing and will  offer a choice of health plans, establish common rules regarding the offering and pricing of health insurance, and provide information to help consumers better understand the options available to them.

“A critical component in the design and development of an Exchange is gathering information from our residents to ensure that all interests are represented in policy formation.  We are dedicated to a comprehensive, meaningful and transparent process and are listening carefully to all thoughts for Exchange goals, policy, and administrative functions,” stated Jeannette DeJesús, Special Advisor to the Governor for Health Care Reform.

The public forums will offer a presentation describing the basics of an Exchange with the majority of time dedicated to listening to public testimony.  The meetings will be held as follows. 

For More Information:  www.ct.gov/opm/exchangegrant

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