Groups Seek Extra Time for ‘Essential Benefits’ Comments

In a letter to HHS, a coalition of patient advocacy groups asked the department to extend the public comment period beyond Jan. 31 on a proposal defining "essential benefits" in state-based health insurance exchanges under the federal health reform law. The letter states that more time is needed because of the complexity of the issue and because the bulletin was released right before the holidays. The groups asked for an extension of 45 days to respond.

• "Patient Groups Seek Delay on 'Essential Benefit' Rules" (Baker, "Healthwatch," The Hill, 1/11).