Response to comment

CMS Response to Comments (Section 8 of Supporting Statement for Health Care Reform Insurance Web
Portal and Supporting Authority Sections 1103 and 10102 of the Patient Protection and Affordability Act,
Pub L. 111-148). Agency Information Collection Activities; Proposals, Submissions, and Approvals
Comment 1
Commenter suggested a program be offered for senior citizens (age 62-64) who are not Medicare
eligible until age 65, that are unable to afford insurance premiums offered by insurers offering coverage
under the Affordable Care Act and the proposed American Health Care Act under the current
administration. Additionally, consider proposing a plan for an affordable catastrophic coverage for
individual consumers to ensure retirement funds are not depleted in the event of a hospital event.
CMS is committed to minimizing the overall burden on insurers as well as aim for better care at lower
costs and improved health for consumers. However, the primary goal and principle design of the Health
Care Reform Insurance Web Portal Requirements 45 CFR part 159 is to provide consumers with
information on their affordable care options and comprehensive information on their Health Insurance
options as required under Section 1103 of the Act. The suggestions mentioned by the commenter are
not covered under this information request, however CMS is appreciative of these recommendations.

Comment 2
Commenter has expressed concern over required forms necessary for patient medical care and
processing for their patients that utilize the Affordable Care Act (ACA), the overall cost of medication,
evaluating how physician are paid for services, educating the public how to seek medical attention for
their episodic care as well as the importance of hospice care as a vehicle for end of life care. Commenter
also suggests the government should have more control over the cost that insurance companies charge
as well as the cost of pharmaceuticals. Additionally, the commenter suggests advocating for science (i.e.
the use of vaccines) and finding value its use in patient medical care.
CMS is committed to working with consumers, state regulators, and issuers to streamline the data
collection process, minimize the burden on insurers, as well as ensure the Affordable Care Act best
serves the American people. However, our PRA and any subsequent collection must remain consistent
with legislation. CMS appreciates the commenter’s recommendations. However, the suggestions made
are not consistent with this information request, and outside the scope of the PRA.