Online Program

Oral

The Affordable Care Act offers an unprecedented opportunity for expanded access to health insurance coverage, both through the Insurance Marketplaces (also known as exchanges) and through state Medicaid expansions. Yet as of June 2013, the Kaiser Family Foundation reported that only one in five Americans -- and only 12 percent of the uninsured – have heard “at least some” about the Marketplaces./1 A great deal of consumer education and outreach is needed, particularly during the preceding and initial months of Marketplace open enrollment (starting Oct. 1), and in the initial months of the ACA coverage expansions (starting Jan. 1). The Affordable Care Act calls for several consumer outreach, education, and enrollment assistance efforts and programs, including Navigators, In Person Assistors, and Certified Application Counselors. What do these programs entail, and how are they being implemented across the country? What are the opportunities for involvement of public health workers and systems –including community health workers and public health departments – in these efforts? What efforts are already underway, and what lessons can be shared? Finally, in situations where there is no funding, and no official opportunities for involvement in these efforts, what do public health workers need to know to help point consumers in the right direction? In this session, both national experts and on-the-ground implementers will discuss these issues and more. 1/ http://kff.org/health-reform/poll-finding/kaiser-health-tracking-poll-june-2013/

Session Objectives: Explain at least two different kinds of consumer education and outreach programs being implemented under the Affordable Care Act. Discuss at least three current outreach programs underway or being planned, and the ways public health is involved (or the challenges to public health involvement). Identify at least two potential opportunities for public health workers or systems to become involved with these ACA consumer education and outreach efforts.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH) , Masters Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)