Idahoans Want Health Insurance Exchange, According To Survey

A new survey out today suggests that an overwhelming number of Idahoans are ready for a change when it comes to their health insurance.

That survey, conducted by the AARP, says that the vast majority of people in Idaho want a state health insurance exchange program.

A health insurance exchange is a set of state-regulated, standardized set of health insurance policies, offered by different insurance companies, from which people can choose the policy they want.

Those in favor of a health insurance exchange say that a variety of choices for the consumer means that insurance companies will have to compete for business.

“[People would] have the opportunity to buy something less expensive, rather than something they can’t afford,” said Richard Wheeler, who sits on the AARP Executive Council representing eastern Idaho.

Of those surveyed, 13 percent said they do not have health insurance. Many people in that group said that was because premiums are too expensive.

Of the 87 percent polled who do have insurance, 22 percent said they delayed getting a prescription filled; 33 percent reported cutting back on food, clothing or housing expenses; and 40 percent said they put off seeing a doctor in order to pay their premium.

“It’s very important for the people in the state of Idaho to realize that this is a possibility that [a health insurance exchange] would be helpful to them, their pocketbook,” Wheeler said. “So many people in their older ages aren’t even paying for their prescriptions or their food, so that they can pay their health insurance. And that’s not right.”

Idaho is one of just nine states that has no type of health insurance exchange, or has no legislation in the works to make one happen.

That, however, could soon change. The state legislature is going to meet next week to discuss creating a health insurance exchange.

According to the AARP survey, 77 percent of people who identify themselves as Republicans, and 78 percent of self-described Democrats are in favor of an exchange.

The survey was conducted among a group of voters between the ages of 30 and 64.