The MHBE was established as a public corporation and independent unit of state government in 2011 in accordance with the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). Working with the Maryland Department of Health, Department of Human Resources (DHR) and the Maryland Insurance Administration, the MHBE created Maryland Health Connection. This marketplace offers Maryland residents a one-stop shop to explore health insurance plans, compare rates, and determine their eligibility for tax credits, cost-sharing reductions and public assistance programs, such as Medicaid and the Maryland Children’s Health Insurance Program. Once an individual or family selects one of the many private health plans or programs that best meets their needs, they may enroll directly through Maryland Health Connection. Small businesses will utilize authorized brokers to find plans that best meet the needs of employees and qualify for tax credits through Maryland Health Connection for Small Business. This “no wrong door” approach ensures access to affordable health insurance, continuity of care, and seamless transitions for individuals and small businesses. Funding made available through federal Early Innovator, Planning and Level One Establishment grants enabled the MHBE to conduct market research; develop and establish a governance structure; procure and begin development for a new enrollment and eligibility system to support Maryland’s “no wrong door” approach in conjunction with Medicaid and DHR; hire executive staff; and engage expert consultants and stakeholder advisory groups to conduct legislatively mandated studies on policy decisions. The Maryland Health Benefit Exchange Acts of 2011 and 2012 defined the policy and operational decisions necessary to move forward with establishing the state-based marketplace in Maryland. Historical Documents
