During the second presidential debate, Donald Trump proposed repealing the Affordable Care Act and permitting payers to sell policies across state lines. Insurance Business tackled the possibility of the presidential candidate's proposal.
Here are seven insights:
1. Mr. Trump reiterated his belief that the government should remove state barriers to increase competition among payers.
2. Many Republicans support this idea of a national market for health insurance, but health experts claim it isn't sound.
3. Although under the ACA, payers are allowed to sell across state lines if the two states agree, no payer has pursued the option.
4. Health experts argue a national market would encourage payers to only compete in states with limited regulations. Payers would likely offer low-cost, low-coverage plans to healthy people.
5. The Urban Institute previously noted coverage crossing state lines would decrease premiums for healthy individuals while increasing premiums and cutting access for those individuals who have health complications.
6. Opponents also claim a national market would present issues with setting rates and negotiating agreements with provider networks.
7. The National Association of Insurance Commissioners reported removing state line barriers would eliminate payer accountability as well as hinder regulators from protecting consumers.