Massachusetts health reform implementation: major progress and future challenges

Since its passage in April 2006, the Massachusetts health reform law (Chapter 58) has expanded affordable insurance coverage to 355,000 people. Major milestones have been achieved, including establishment of new coverage programs, merger of small-group and nongroup insurance markets, creation of an insurance "Connector," determination of affordability and penalty standards for an individual mandate, and launch of employer responsibility requirements. Key challenges remain, including full implementation of the individual mandate, cost control, and securing of long-term financing. Massachusetts health reform is offering valuable and important lessons for the nation.