MN health exchange board creates policy

The citizen board of directors for Minnesota’s health insurance exchange is trying to reduce the possibility of conflict of interests within the state-run program before its implementation on Oct. 1.

According to The Winona Daily News, the seven-member citizen board is creating a policy that would ensure the system’s fairness for state residents when the enter the exchange. With numerous health insurance companies entering state exchanges, the board believes it is important to create an official policy that diminishes any possibility of a conflict of interest. By disposing the possibility of any conflicts, the board hopes it will create transparency within MNsure and improve the exchange’s success.

Many members of the board are professionals in the healthcare industry, with expertise regarding the issue of compliance with state regulations.

According to The Post Bulletin, a Minnesota news site, Mary Foarde, an attorney consulting with the board, said it is important for the exchange to create an official policy.

“If you think you have an interest, it’s your obligation to bring it up at that time,”  said Foarde. “That’s the policy, that’s the intent.”