New insurance chief’s views on health

The race to become the state’s next insurance commissioner was an under-the-radar contest, with most media attention focused on the gubernatorial election. But the insurance post, which was won by state Sen. Ralph Hudgens, is important. The commissioner’s office fields complaints from consumers in their battles with insurance companies, and reviews premium increases by insurers. In his new job, Hudgens will also help form the state’s policies as it responds to the implementation of health care reform.

Here are Hudgens’ answers to important health questions posed by consumer advocacy group Georgians for a Healthy Future: