HHS awards $67M to Health Insurance Marketplace 'navigators'

WASHINGTON — Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius has announced $67 million in grant awards to 105 navigator grant applicants in federally facilitated and State Partnership Marketplaces.



These Navigator grantees and their staff will serve as an in-person resource for Americans who want additional assistance in shopping for and enrolling in plans in the Health Insurance Marketplace beginning this fall. In addition, HHS recognized more than 100 national organizations and businesses who have volunteered to help Americans learn about the healthcare coverage available in the Marketplace.



“Navigators will be among the many resources available to help consumers understand their coverage options in the Marketplace,” Sebelius stated. “A network of volunteers on the ground in every state — healthcare providers, business leaders, faith leaders, community groups, advocates and local elected officials — can help spread the word and encourage their neighbors to get enrolled.”



Navigators are trained to provide information to consumers about health insurance, the new Health Insurance Marketplaces, qualified health plans and public programs including Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program.