High risk pool implementation in WA State

[eridani]

Got the following from a friend attending committee meetings--

The high risk pool mandated by PPACA is being set up by the OIC in Washington State. They expect it to be up and running by July 1. Premiums will probably be on the order of $800+/month, so it's not clear how many people will take advantage of it. There's only $102 million available for funding it for the next 3 1/2 years until the exchange starts, and denying coverage for pre-existing conditions will be prohibited.

[aquart]

1. So this is going to be state by strapped state?

Another gift to the insurance companies?

[eridani]

2. Exactly.

All the chronically ill people I know can afford $800/month. :sarcasm:

[Oregone]

3. Sounds like a Big Fucking Deal

[kirby]

4. I recall...

that I posted about this flaw in the bill and all the fanboys here were telling me how 2014 means nothing because each state will have a high risk pool.

Such as http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=433&topic_id=240634&mesg_id=240747

[eridani]

5. And "I told you so" gives neither of us one damned bit of satisfaction n/t

[eridani]

6. 4 hours so far, and no input from Dr. Pangloss yet n/t