CMS Proposed Rule: Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act; Exchange Functions: Standards for Navigators and Non-Navigator Assistance

April 5, 2013
On April 5, 2013, the federal government released proposed rules describing the role of “Navigators” who help consumers understand their options when purchasing a health plan through a state health insurance exchange. Navigators are defined as organizations designated to provide accurate and impartial assistance to consumers about their health insurance options, the new Health Insurance Exchanges, qualified health plans, and public programs including Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 (PPACA) established health insurance exchanges where consumers without employer-sponsored insurance can compare and buy plans . . .