The Massachusetts Health Connector recently revamped its website (though which individuals can browse, compare, and enroll in health plans), making the site even more consumer-friendly. As the Connector puts it: “New look, same trusted guide to the right health plan for you.”

In addition to giving the homepage a visually appealing makeover, the Connector has added some helpful new substantive features. As consumers shop for insurance, for example, they are now clearly alerted to the date by which they must purchase coverage in order to be covered on the first of the following month. Also, a new and improved series of screens guides consumers through the process of choosing a plan.

Also new and improved is the Quality and Cost Council’s My Health Care Options website. The website provides a comparison of patient safety, quality, and cost of care provided by Massachusetts hospitals and provider groups. Users can hospital cost, quality and patient safety by location, procedure or condition; and view the ratings of a particular hospital. New features include better search, and the addition of medical groups, cost data, additional quality information, and cost graphics.

All in all, a nice new look for a two consumer resources!
-Rose Guiltinan

(Updated to include My Health Options info)