VA spending on healthcare reform awareness low

Virginia is one of the states spending the least per capita to inform citizens about upcoming healthcare reform. 

Data assembled by The Associated Press found only Wisconsin is putting less money toward healthcare reform education than Virginia. According to The Washington Post, Virginia is only spending 49 cents per resident compared to Wisconsin's 46 cents. Virginia is one of the states that has allowed the federal government to manage its health insurance exchange program, so much of the state's money is being spent on community organizations and health centers rather than education about the new insurance marketplace.

Virginia is spending a total of $3.9 million to educate residents about healthcare reform. Local West Virginia news station WVNS reported Virginia's total spending is much lower than its neighbor states, such as West Virginia, which is spending $17.1 million, or $9 per resident.

Jill Hanken, health attorney for the Virginia Poverty Law Center, told The Associated Press that Virginia did not apply for federal assistance, despite opting in to the federal government running the state's marketplace, but the state will still get the word out.

"There is going to be lots and lots of activity," Hanken said. "Nearly everyone's going to be hearing about this."