On May 24, the Center for Healthcare Research & Transformation released a brief examining state and local health policy under the national health care reform law.  The brief outlines  policy options and responsibilities, as well as delivery system changes that state and local health systems may implement.  The authors conclude that the law presents numerous opportunities for health system improvement at the state and local level.

From the report: 

As should be evident from this policy brief, P.L. 111-148 provides tremendous opportunities at the state and local level and includes a scope that goes well beyond an impact on health care coverage alone. !ose most interested in influencing the future of health reform would be well served to identify the state and local options of most interest to
them, become involved in shaping their implementation and design, and work to assure federal, state, and local funding for those options.

Full report: The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act at the State and Local Level (PDF | 305 KB)

Center for Healthcare Research & Transformation.  (2011).  The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act at the state and local level.