Description: Key aspects of credibility formulas & modeling, experience data requirements Issue No. 37.

Description: Article discusses causes of high charges in relations to reimbursement arrangements and possible actions of insurers & payers. Issue No. 45.

Description: There are early indications of a six year cycle in ACA markets reminiscent of the traditional underwriting cycle.

Description: Leader Interview With Greger J. Vigen

Description: NAIC Health Update. Issue No. 44.

Description: SOA interview with David Axene

Description: The letter from the editor thanks all of the authors for their contributions and gives a very quick synopsis of what will be appearing in the June issue.

Description: On average, contracts receiving their first star rating receive 3.20 stars, compared to existing or established contracts receiving 3.90 stars on average. This 0.70 disparity in quality ratings creates significant hardship on new contracts when this lower star rating decreases their payments in the following calendar year. This article explores the disparity in Medicare Advantage Star Ratings between contracts receiving their first star ratings (“New” contracts) and existing contracts, including: 1. Understanding what happens to Medicare Advantage Payments when contracts receive lower star ratings? – What is the Star Rating cliff and why does it matter to new contracts? 2. Explaining when a contract receives their first star rating and how much enrollment this requires – When does the Star Rating cliff occur? 3. Noting which specific star measures “New” contracts struggle with, including those contracts under large parent organizations, contracts with rapid growth, and all other new contracts. – How can my contract avoid the Star Rating cliff?

Description: This corner serves to update the membership of some of the section’s milestones for this year, set the trajectory for 2009, and thank the many dedicated individuals and teams who made it happen. Issue No. 59

Description: Update on Affordable Care Act topics, including Section 1332 waivers, Association Health Plans, silver loading and cost sharing reductions.