“Navigator” program will continue to help consumers understand health coverage options as they enroll in coverage

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) today announced the availability of funding, totaling $60 million, to support Navigators in Federally-facilitated and State Partnership Marketplaces in 2014-2015. Navigators provide unbiased information to consumers about health insurance, the Health Insurance Marketplace, qualified health plans, and public programs including Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

“Navigators have been an important resource for the millions of Americans who enrolled in coverage in 2014. This funding ensures this work will continue next year, including during the open enrollment period for the Marketplaces,” said CMS Administrator Marilyn Tavenner.

The funding opportunity announcement is open to eligible individuals, as well as private and public entities, applying to serve as Navigators in states with a Federally-facilitated or State Partnership Marketplace. It is open to new and returning Navigator applicants, and applications are due by July 10, 2014.

Last month, CMS finalized regulations that update the requirements applicable to Navigators. To access the final rule, visit: https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2014/05/27/2014-11657/patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act-exchange-and-insurance-market-standards-for-2015-and

Navigators will now be required to maintain a physical presence in the Marketplace service area, so that face-to-face assistance can be provided to consumers. Navigator grant applicants will also be encouraged to perform background checks for all Navigator staff that will be handling sensitive or personally identifiable information (PII). In addition to quarterly and annual reporting, Navigators will be required to submit to CMS weekly and monthly progress reports detailing their progress and activities in their target communities.

To access the funding opportunity announcement, visit: http://www.grants.gov, and search for CFDA # 93.332.

For more information about Navigators, visit: https://www.cms.gov/cciio/programs-and-initiatives/health-insurance-marketplaces/assistance