‘Navigators’ battle balky website, help residents sign up for Obamacare
IRVING — “Navigators,” the workers hired under federal grants to help people sign up for insurance under the Affordable Care Act, are on the prowl.
If an evening workshop here last week was typical, they’re polite and know their business. But statistically speaking, your chances of meeting one are almost nil — they are few, and the workload is heavy, especially with extensive technology problems slowing the process in the first two weeks.
Likeliest shoppers include those who buy their own coverage, are uninsured and don’t have an affordable offer of insurance at work. A million or more North Texans may be eligible, and all may qualify for federal subsidies to defray the cost of premiums. Small businesses also may purchase in the exchange, or marketplace.
It’s supposed to be an Orbitz-like experience. So far, it’s more like the days of dial-up modems.
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