Boston – There has been a great deal of debate and some confusion about the effects Massachusetts’ health reform has had on the uninsured and the state’s budget. It is important to recognize the success of the program as Massachusetts negotiates its federal Medicaid waiver.

To offer some clarity, Community Catalyst in partnership with Health Care for All in Massachusetts created a brief fact sheet outlining the successes and challenges of the state’s health reform law, available here.

Overall, the state’s uninsured rate has been cut in half. In addition, a recent poll shows support from Massachusetts residents remains strong for the third year since health reform passed. Released by the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts Foundation, Dr. Robert Blendon’s poll results are unusual; support for health reform is typically strong when a law passes but declines as changes are implemented and meet with reality. The survey results charts are available here.

Community Catalyst is a national non-profit advocacy organization dedicated to making quality, affordable health care accessible to everyone. Since 1997, Community Catalyst has worked to build consumer and community leadership to transform the American health system. With the belief that this transformation will happen when consumers are fully engaged and have an organized voice, Community Catalyst works in partnership with national, state and local consumer organizations, policymakers, and foundations, providing leadership and support to change the health care system so it serves everyone—especially vulnerable members of society.