Affordable Care Act supporters say web-based health insurance brokers have the marketing and customer service know-how to quickly help Covered California sign up as many low-income enrollees as possible.
“We need people to get information to be able to sign up quickly,” says Assemblymember Richard Pan. “We have limited time to do that.”
Covered California did not respond to interview requests. Online brokers would receive a commission for each new person they enroll.
Valley ecommerce leaders say Covered California has rebuffed their overtures.
“Covered California has been resistant to our offers,” says Gary Lauer, CEO of eHealth. “Frankly they’ve rejected our request for them to allow us to be an option.”
Those calling for a partnership between Covered California and online brokers say getting more young people to sign up is crucial for the exchange’s success.