Connecticut’s health insurance exchange has launched a free initiative to help people become licensed insurance brokers. It is aimed at reducing the number of uninsured and improving the health disparities. Tammy Hendricks, director of health equity & outreach for Access Health CT, said that a study showed significant inequalities in healthcare in the state. Hendricks’ department was formed to narrow this gap.
- 100 brokers to be trained initially: The academy will initially train 100 brokers. The classes which begin from June 1, will be conducted in person in the greater Hartford, New Haven and Bridgeport areas. The programme also has a scope or mentorship. Talking about the eligibility, Hendricks said that anyone 18 years or over with a high school diploma can send in the application for training and it is not constrained by the years of experience.
- 13% Meridien adults have no coverage: As per a 2021 report from New Haven-based non-profit Data Haven, 13% of Meriden adults had no health insurance with Black and Latino residents affected in a disproportionate manner. The report said, “ Due to differences in workplace benefits, income, and eligibility factors, Black and especially Latino people are less likely to have health insurance than white people.” Around 20% of Latinos and nearly 10% of Black residents lack health insurance across the state.
- Initiative gets community backing: The local community has backed the initiative to reduce the disparities among communities. Mark Kosnoff, executive director of United Action CT, said he’s always in favor of initiatives focused on reducing health disparities. The deputy mayor of Meriden, Michael Cardona, also a member of the City Council, said he is “definitely in favor” of efforts aimed at reducing health disparities and the number of uninsured in the state.
- ‘High healthcare cost a worry’: Mark Kosnoff, while backing the effort, also raised concerns about the cost of healthcare. He said, “As much as I am in favor of this plan, the state and our nation still needs to address the high cost of healthcare.” He said, “I fear that despite these new brokers many people in underserved communities will still be unable to afford health insurance.”
- Focus on brokers’ role: Hailing the programme, Marie Yardis, access to care director for Community Health Center Inc., said the certified application counselors can’t guide patients about which plan to choose and can go as far as familiarizing them about the options patients have. Yardis said that they “bank on brokers to help our patients on decision-making because we are limited in this area.” Yardis said that additional brokers would certainly support our efforts in getting people enrolled.”