Emergency COVID-19 enrollment period: Just what the doctor ordered?

Though marketplace enrollment increased in a number of states, navigators noted unresolved problems that hindered access for some consumers during the regular open enrollment period.

The beginning of both a new year and a new presidential administration is a good time to take the pulse of the Affordable Care Act. Included in President Biden’s plan for the first 10 days in office is a list of orders targeting the ACA, including one expected this week that will reopen the federal exchanges for those who have yet to purchase a health insurance plan.

“As he takes office, President Biden faces a daunting list of challenges as he endeavors to make progress on the health reform proposals he made during the campaign,” according to a new KFF report. “Beyond just reversing Trump administration cuts, there are opportunities to make the marketplace more responsive to consumer needs and to work with Navigators to identify and address problems as they emerge. The availability of unspent, carryover user fee revenue could make possible immediate investments in marketing and outreach, support for enrollment assistance and other improvements.”