SEATTLE - Washington is set to become the first state to enter the private health insurance market with a universally available public option. A set of tiered public plans will cover standard services, and are anticipated to be up to 10% cheaper than comparable private insurance, thanks in part to savings from a cap on rates paid to providers. Unlike existing government-managed plans, the Washington plans are set to be available to all residents regardless of income by 2021.

Source: thestar May 12, 2019 15:45 UTC