Richard Onizuka (left) and Beth Walter have both been involved with the Exchange from the beginning.

In a special meeting on Wednesday, the Washington Health Exchange Board voted to appoint Richard K. Onizuka, Ph.D., as CEO of the State Health Benefit Exchange Board.  In his previous position as assistant director of health policy at the Washington State Health Care Authority, Richard oversaw the same program, before it split off in March.

The Health Benefit Exchange is the centerpiece of federal health care reform at the state level and will serve as a clearinghouse for individuals and small businesses who seek to purchase health insurance, and determine if they are eligible for subsidies or credits.

Also on Wednesday the Board Policy Subcommittee met in Seattle and was updated on key policy decisions facing the Board in the next six months — working off a timeline document from the April meeting.  One of the more difficult challenges will be coming up with a consumer rating system for evaluating insurance plans.  State Labor Council lobbyist Teresa Mosqueda was made chair of the Subcommittee.

The Board’s regular May meeting is scheduled for the 16th.

More information on the Exchange can be found at http://www.hca.wa.gov/hcr/exchange .

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