What Are Health Insurance Marketplaces and Exchanges?
Exchanges or marketplaces are services that enable enrollment in insurance either through a public or private forum. These forums are accessible through multiple portals and websites.
Massachusetts Private Exchanges vs Public Exchanges
Private Exchanges
The private exchange is designed to be used by employers to allow employees to enroll in a pre-selected company health insurance plan. It is also where individuals and small businesses shop and enroll for coverage during the open enrollment window. Consulting firms or brokers typically run the private exchange utilized by an employer.
The following carriers are available through private exchanges or third parties in Massachusetts:
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
- UnitedHealthcare
- HPHC Insurance Company
- Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare
- Neighborhood Health Plan
- Ambetter from Celticare Health Plan of MA
Public Exchanges
The public exchange for Massachusetts is run by the state through Massachusetts Health Connector. While the plans available are well suited for the citizens of Massachusetts, the state has struggled significantly with the technical aspect of setting up the exchange and have spent over a $100 million to address issues.
When using the public exchange, your application will also verify if you qualify for Medicaid, CHIP, or other discounts based on income level.
The following carriers are available through the Massachusetts public exchange:
- Ambetter (Celticare)
- Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts
- Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan
- Fallon Community Health Plan
- Harvard Pilgrim Health Care
- Health New England
- Minuteman Health
- Neighborhood Health Plan
- Tufts
Massachusetts Marketplace and Exchange Facts
