NH health exchange leaders voice priorities

After the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) granted conditional approval to New Hampshire's benefits exchange, which the state will operate in partnership with the federal government, public healthcare officials shared their opinions and expectations for the system at a forum on Friday.

Roughly 24 people spoke at the community discussion in Concord, which was organized by New Hampshire Voices for Health and the AARP, according to The Associated Press.

Audience members included state insurance and health department representatives. HHS regional officials listened to testimony via telephone.

A common sentiment voiced by several speakers is the satisfaction of knowing consumers on the healthcare marketplace will have more insurance options. Many residents said they want a system that is user-friendly, and utilizes resources already in place.

Lisa Morris, director of the Lakes Region Partnership for Public Health, noted the state's experience handling public health coverage shed light on some of the challenges that will have to be confronted to ensure users can enroll and shop for insurance properly.

"There are many people who have difficulty understanding the complexity of the healthcare system, not to mention navigating web-based information and enrollment," Morris said.

Several speakers said the system should be understandable and helpful for users of all education and internet savviness levels.