Approximately 10.6 million people were aided by more than 4,400 in-person assistance programs in searching and applying for coverage in the first six-month enrollment period. Brokers also played a role in helping consumers sign up for coverage. Some believe that in-person, enrollment assistance programs are key to future enrollment success, while others voice concerns about the training of those offering assistance, and the security of applicants’ personal information. Many questions arise about their effect on coverage moving forward and the funding required to support the programs.

What has been the effect of navigator and other in-person assistance programs? Has the role of brokers changed? What are some of the key policy and financing questions for in-person assistance programs looking forward? Are the privacy concerns of citizens being addressed by proper and effective confidentiality policies?

A panel of experts addressed these and related questions at an August 5, 2014, Kaiser Family Foundation and the Alliance for Health Reform briefing.

The panel was co-moderated by Jennifer Tolbert of the Kaiser Family Foundation and Ed Howard of the Alliance.

Speakers:

• Karen Pollitz, senior fellow at the Kaiser Family Foundation

• Lisa Stein, vice-president of Work and Family Supports at Seedco

• Jodi Ray, project director at USF – Florida Covering Kids & Families

• Jessica Waltman, senior vice-president of government affairs at National Association of Insurance Underwriters

For the full materials associated with the briefing, please visit the Alliance for Health Reform website.