Scott Brennan

This document outlines the proposed 2027 Plan Certification Standards for individual market plans sold through Maryland Health Connection. Key proposals include maintaining 2026 cost-sharing, requiring $0 cost-sharing for at least one continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for diabetes, and mandating carriers to provide accessible, transparent documentation of these diabetes benefits on their websites. The standards aim to enhance affordability, simplify plan choices, and promote health equity, particularly for diabetes care.

The meeting featured a detailed presentation on the 2026 individual and small group market rates by the Maryland Insurance Administration, noting an average premium increase of 13.4% driven by subsidy expiration and morbidity. Discussions covered the new state subsidy program, Aetna's market withdrawal, and dental rates, which showed an overall average decrease of 1.4%. The Executive Report addressed the impact of a potential federal government shutdown, noting concerns regarding the termination of federal subsidies affecting lawfully present immigrants. A key agenda item involved approving an updated implementation plan to delay the 1332 Waiver Amendment, which allows undocumented residents to enroll, until the Fall 2027 open enrollment period. Additionally, the Board approved a request to revise the Connector Entity (CE) grants modification, increasing the not-to-exceed amount to support enrollment and education efforts, and approved soliciting sponsorships for the 2026 Broker Achievement Award. A preview of proposed 2027 plan certification standards was also presented, including new requirements for primary care investment targets under the AHEAD model and potential changes to Value Plan standards.

This document provides an overview of small business health insurance trends, challenges, and opportunities in Maryland, focusing on the Maryland Health Connection for Small Business program. It details the marketplace's features and outlines a strategic direction for future growth. Key initiatives include the launch of a new portal in Fall 2025 with a goal to enroll approximately 10,000 businesses within five years, expanded outreach programs, and future innovations such as the integration of Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs).

The Board meeting focused on several administrative and regulatory matters. Key discussion points included committee reports from the Standing Advisory Committee and the Finance Committee. The Executive Director provided an update, including modifications to future board meeting dates. Significant agenda items involved the proposal of the Small Business Plan Limits Regulation and the 2027 Plan Certification Standards. There was also an update on the MHC for Small Business program. Procurement discussions involved the second-year option for the SalesForce license and an NTE increase for Language Line services. The agenda concluded with a motion to enter a closed session to discuss personnel matters, specifically concerning appointment, employment, compensation, and performance evaluation of individuals under the Board's jurisdiction.

The meeting included discussions on acknowledging the service of SAC members, executive updates, plan certification standards, small business enrollment portal updates, consumer and stakeholder events, updates from the MIA health coverage assistance team, and upcoming federal changes. The committee also discussed the federal government potentially enhancing tax credits, the AHEAD model, and value plans for 2027, including diabetes coverage and transparency efforts.