Expert Available to Speak for CA Health Plans Leading up to Covered California Launch on Oct. 1

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Sept. 26, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- With California's new health exchange marketplace, Covered California, scheduled to begin enrollment in just over one week, on October 1^st, the President and CEO of the California Association of Health Plans (CAHP), Patrick Johnston, is available to speak as an expert on behalf of California's health plans. Mr. Johnston can address the many questions surrounding the start of the new health exchange and what these changes will mean for Californians.

"The Affordable Care Act sets a new benchmark for health coverage purchased by individuals and families and offers generous subsidies to help people pay for this expanded coverage," CAHP President & CEO Patrick Johnston stated. "The changes reflect not just a new market, but a new product. Californians will get more comprehensive benefits and deductibles and co-pays levels will be limited. Pre-existing conditions will no longer be taken into consideration and pricing based on age is restricted."

The Oct. 1 enrollment date represents a critical component of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and will be closely watched nationwide as we move toward full implementation of the ACA in 2014. Mr. Johnston, who previously served as both a California State Senator and Assemblymember for nearly 20 years, is able to provide a unique perspective as the leader of the state's trade association representing 40 public and private health care plans that provide coverage to more than 21 million Californians.

All 12 health plans offering coverage through Covered California are members of CAHP.

CAHP has also produced a number of infographics and fact sheets, linked below, in an effort to help ensure the public is fully informed as the ACA goes into effect. Please feel free to download and post the materials.

Infographics & Fact Sheets:
Individual Health Coverage: New Rules Impact Premiums and Coverage
ACA 101 Guide
Health Options for Small Businesses in 2014
Health Care Cost Drivers

SOURCE California Association of Health Plans