HHS announces additional Navigator funding amid extended enrollment deadline
Over 700,000 more consumers have signed up for coverage this year than last year.
Photo: HealthCare.gov
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services is adding more consumer resources to support consumers' access to Affordable Care Act coverage during an extended open enrollment period.
Approximately $10.2 million in additional funding is being awarded to current Navigator grantees in federally facilitated marketplace states. The funding will help support Navigator's outreach, education and enrollment efforts.
The original deadline of Dec. 15 to enroll for coverage starting Jan. 1 has been extended through Jan. 15, 2022; however, coverage in plans selected after Dec. 15 and by Jan. 15 will generally start Feb. 1, 2022, CMS said.
WHY THIS MATTERS
Enrollment for coverage under the Affordable Care Act and the number of insurers in the market remains strong, according to CMS.
To date, 4.6 million people have enrolled during the 2022 Marketplace Open Enrollment Period with the average consumer having plan options from between six and seven insurance companies, up from four to five companies in 2021.
Last year, after the fifth week of open enrollment ending Dec. 5, 2020, 3.8 million people had selected plans.
American Rescue Plan funds are giving additional financial help to pay for marketplace coverage, with four out of five consumers able to find a plan for $10 or less per month, CMS said.
"We have launched one of the strongest open enrollment periods – with lower prices and four times the number of assisters available to walk people through their coverage options," said Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. "In addition to quadrupling the number of Navigators, we're working to get everyone possible covered with the peace of mind that comes with quality health insurance."
THE LARGER TREND
Due to the additional funding, the number of Navigators has quadrupled, with 1,580 trained and certified.
The campaign for this open enrollment reflects the largest marketing investment since the launch of HealthCare.gov.
Under the Trump Administration, Navigator funding was cut.
Twitter: @SusanJMorse
Email the writer: susan.morse@himssmedia.com
