New Web site helps consumers navigate health insurance exchanges – National Consumers League

By Nikola Sirovica, Communications Intern Many Americans are confused about how to enroll in the new health insurance exchanges which will take effect on January 1, 2014.  A new resource will help you navigate options when registration begins on October 1, 2013.

The Obama administration last week kicked off the Health Insurance Marketplace education effort with a consumer-friendly Healthcare.gov Web site and a 24-hour-a-day consumer call center to help Americans sign up for private health insurance. The new tools will help consumers select the coverage that best suits their needs. Open enrollment for free or low-cost coverage available through Medicaid or the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) begins October 1. Key features of the Web site include integration of social media, sharable content, and consumer-friendly information to help Americans find the right coverage for their budget. The new design allows consumers to access it from their desktops, smart phones, and other mobiles devices, and also features a web chat for those who need live assistance. By October, consumers will be able to create accounts, complete an online application, and shop for qualified health plans. As Kathleen Sebelius, Health and Human Services Secretary, put it, “the Web site will make sure every American who needs health coverage has the information they need to make the choices that are right for themselves, their families, and their businesses.” Learn more about the Web site at www.HealthCare.gov. For Spanish speaking consumers, CuidadoDeSalud.gov, will be updated to match the information found in the new Web site. Customer service representatives are available for assistance via a toll-free number at 1-800-318-2596.