Republican-led reform opposition could hinder insurers

Since several Republican-led states still are resisting the healthcare reform law, it's possible insurers operating in those states could see fewer consumers enrolled in plans under the law, reported the Los Angeles Times. "I would certainly rather be in a state that is trying than in one that is not," said Alan Weil, executive director of the National Academy for State Heath Policy. "There are going to be some big differences." For example, in the 34 states that aren't creating a health insurance exchange, there will be little assistance offered to consumers trying to navigate the new online marketplace. In Missouri, state workers are explicitly forbidden from providing assistance with the exchange. And in Florida, the insurance commissioner can't prevent rate increases for two years. As a result of these steps to oppose the reform law, some consumers may not receive necessary help to understand the exchanges and successfully enroll in a plan. Article