Many states now are initiating or expanding efforts to provide coverage to their uninsured residents. Increasingly, state leaders see that consumer and citizen input on healthcare priorities is an important step in planning coverage expansion.

With six years experience in using CHAT to elicit public views and values, SHD is now consulting with other states to assist them in designing models of CHAT consistent with their coverage environment and what they want to learn from their constituents. SHD also trains local staff as session facilitators and provides technical support to expedite individual state projects.

The Departments of Insurance in Oklahoma, Montana and Ohio have contracted with SHD to develop unique CHAT models for their populations and to assist in launching their state projects.

Others interested in developing a state-specific CHAT project should contact SHD.