Connecticut ACA Exchange Launches Health Broker School

Connecticut’s public, web-based supermarket for health insurance is trying to turn residents from low-income communities in the state into insurance brokers.

Managers of the Access Health CT Affordable Care Act public exchange have started a Broker Academy for residents of areas in the states that have a relatively low average income and high rates of uninsurance.

The academy will help students get licensed as health insurance brokers. It will offer students free training, three-month apprenticeships with experienced brokers, and professional development opportunities.

Academy organizers say they hope the health broker school will reduce the number of uninsured people in Connecticut, by increasing the odds that uninsured people will connect with brokers in their own communities.

Why a Health Broker School?

Connecticut has a higher level of wealth and income than most other U.S. states.

But Access Health CT found, when it analyzed the market, that residents of lower-income Connecticut communities are less likely to be healthy and more likely to have trouble getting health care.

“By activating members of these underserved communities to become licensed brokers, Access Health CT can build trust, by meeting members of the community where they are, and at the same time, create economic benefits in those areas,” Access Health CT CEO James Michel said in a comment about the academy launch.

The School

The organizers are starting by recruiting students from in and around Bridgeport, Hartford and New Haven.

The organizers are looking for applicants who:

• Are at least 18 years of age; a resident of Bridgeport, Hartford, or New Haven (or surrounding areas).
• Have high school diplomas or GEDs.
• Have a history of community involvement or service.
• Have strong communication and customer service skills.

Classes are set to start June 1.

..

James Michel (Photo: Access Health CT)