Analysis and Technical Assistance in Support of Health Reform

Over the past year, Sherry Glied’s research team made timely contributions to two high-profile policy debates: the revenue implications for states that decide not to expand eligibility for their Medicaid programs under the Affordable Care Act, and the potential effect of the law’s employer mandate on workers’ hours. A third analysis will estimate the likely increase in demand for physician and hospital services and assess whether the existing supply of providers will be sufficient. Over the next year, Glied and colleagues will continue to examine key health reform policy issues. The research agenda is likely to include: the Affordable Care Act’s early effects on coverage; how the “Cadillac tax” on high-cost employer plans will affect workers’ health benefits; and the accuracy of Congressional Budget Office estimates of the law’s coverage and cost effects. In addition, the team will provide programming and data support for Commonwealth Fund staff and grantees.