Value of Agents, Brokers and Consultants
As implementation of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) progresses, NAHU is dedicated to ensuring continued access to the crucial services of state-licensed health insurance agents, brokers and consultants who work on a daily basis to help individuals and employers of all sizes purchase health insurance, use their coverage effectively and make sure they get the most out of the benefits they have purchased. Consumers' need for help from a licensed professional will only increase as the new health reform law is fully implemented and the compliance demands on employers and individuals increase.
To assist with health insurance implementation, PPACA creates a role for navigators and assisters. While these navigators and assisters will help Americans gain access to the newly developed health insurance exchanges working primarily through community centers and call centers to help people determine subsidy eligibility, they are prohibited from enrolling anyone into a health plan. Navigators and assistors by law are required to direct their clients to licensed health insurance agents and brokers. As health reform implementation progresses, Americans now, more than ever will rely on health insurance agents and brokers to purchase the best possible coverage.
Resources
NAHU Issue Summary on the Role of Agents, Brokers and Consultants in Health Reform In order for healthcare reform to be successful, NAHU believes Congress must include health insurance agents, brokers and consultants in any reformed healthcare delivery system.Brokers Making a Difference Website NAHU has dedicated a website to promote how agents and brokers are making a difference in the lives of their clients every day. The site includes resources for the uninsured, information about finding a licensed insurance professional and also a book of real-life testimonials from agents and their clients about the value of the services agents and brokers and consultants provide.
Current Regulation of Agents, Brokers and Consultants Agents and brokers are subject to rigorous licensing and continuing education laws and many other state-level requirements. This map developed by the NAIC details the regulation of agents and brokers on a state by state basis.