A new study from the Urban Institute, an organization that investigates social and economic problems in the U.S., suggests that Oklahoma, as well as 14 other states, could see major benefits from establishing a health insurance exchange. The study shows that, at this point, Oklahoma has done the least to make progress on the project, apart from states that have refused the law completely. A health insurance exchange would have a significant economic impact for the state and its peoples, according to the Urban Institute.
Over the past year, three separate legislations that would have established a foundation for a health insurance exchange in the state have failed. Governor Mary Fallin also rejected a $54 million grant from the federal government that would have helped in building the exchange program. There is currently a legislative task force at work in the state that is investigating what the next move should be.
According to the study, Oklahoma has more than $800 million in uncompensated care for the uninsured. This is a major hole in the state’s economy and one that could slow progress for any health care initiative the state would seek as an alternative to the Affordable Care Act. The study shows that the states that are lagging behind adopting the law are doing so at major risk for themselves and their residents. These states, however, hold that the law may be declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court. If this is the case, none of them will be forced to adhere to the law.
