Should the state self-insure? 

---

This summer, the Group Insurance Board will request proposals on whether the state should switch to a self-insurance model for its employees. A consultant hired by the state said the move could save up to $42 million, which Gov. Scott Walker has promised to put into education. But health plans now participating in the program say it would lead to worse care and more expenses. They point to a previous study commissioned by the state, which estimated switching to a self-insurance model could cost an additional $100 million.

Panelists:

• Pete Farrow, CEO, Group Health Cooperative of Eau Claire
• Jerry Frye, President, The Benefit Services Group
• Lisa Ellinger, Director, Office of Strategic Health Policy at the Department of Employee Trust Funds