The federal government is preparing to implement more parts of the Affordable Care Act which includes several pieces that may be confusing to the typical consumer. That includes "navigators," who will be designated to help guide people through the policies. *********
If you donât understand every aspect of the federal Affordable Care Act, youâre not alone. Thatâs why lawmakers, expecting the possibility of confusion, created funding for navigators: People who will help guide consumers as they look for the insurance that will work best for them. These navigators are different from the typical insurance agent or broker. Theyâre not allowed to sell or promote any insurance plan over another theyâre just there to answer questions. Different groups and associations have applied to implement a navigator program. And in the next few weeks the federal government is expected to announce which organizations will receive funding. Thatâs when the state of Ohio steps in to make sure these navigators are certified. Lieutenant Governor Mary Taylor also who also heads the Ohio Department of Insurance. She's strongly criticized the Affordable Care Act, but says she understands the importance of properly training these navigators.
We want to make sure they are, you know, held to high standards, they are knowledgeable, have the kind of information or understand the type of information theyâre going to be explaining to consumers.
Ohio lawmakers passed a bill earlier this year that created the certification process; the legislation included a mandatory background check. Taylor says itâs the kind of screening that would be expected of any insurance agent. âBecause these individuals are going to beâhave close contact and close relationships with individuals in their own homes or at various community events and we want to make sure that these individualsâthat we do what we can at the Department of Insurance to protect consumers.â? Navigators are part of the Affordable Care Actâs outreach effort. According to Taylor⦠their exact role in Ohio hasnât been completely defined. The lieutenant governor added that the state has certain regulations in place where the department of insurance can revoke certification in the event of any wrongdoing by a navigator. Some health care advocates are criticizing the state's certification rules. On Wednesday, Andy will have more on why they believe the rules impact a large portion of non-profit groups.