Blue Shield California CEO: 'We're not running for the hills'

Blue Shield of California CEO Paul Markovich told California Healthline he is committed to selling coverage on the state exchange despite Republicans' vow to repeal ACA legislation.

Mr. Markovich also criticized President-elect Donald Trump's support for inter-state insurance sales as a way to boost competition.

"It will push health plans to find the regulatory body or state with the fewest number of regulations," Mr. Markovich said. "It's a race to the lowest common denominator and the least rich benefits. That is what we want to avoid, and I don't think it will do much to increase competition."

Blue Shield of California is the largest insurer by member in the state's exchange market, covering about 30 percent of Covered California enrollees.

Mr. Markovich predicted the insurer will lose money on its exchange business this year, but said he is committed to finding success in the new healthcare market.

"There are always risks and concerns moving from one policy framework to another, but I think an effective transition is workable. We wouldn't be running for the hills," Mr. Markovich told California Healthline. "We intend to keep offering individual coverage and keep trying to make it work under whatever regulatory or legislative umbrella we are under."

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