Local efforts play critical role in enrolling 11.4 million in coverage
Statement of Reobert Resutccia, Executive Director, Community Catalyst

(BOSTON) – “The second Affordable Care Act open enrollment period has made it possible for more than 11 million Americans to gain access to quality, affordable health care in private marketplaces. These numbers don’t include the many millions more who have signed up for coverage under Medicaid. The enrollment totals, which are still growing, have surpassed expectations and show the ACA is succeeding in connecting Americans to the health coverage they want and need. These are our neighbors, our friends, and our family members who work every day to provide for themselves and their children who are now no longer one hospital stay away from bankruptcy or foreclosure.

“These impressive enrollment numbers could not have been achieved without the tireless efforts of Navigators, Certified Application Counselors and other enrollment specialists working in communities across the country to educate and enroll consumers in coverage. This year, local and statewide enrollment organizations and coalitions continued their creative and effective approaches to getting the word out, from radio ads featuring minor league baseball players to enrollment events at rural churches to advertising during movie previews. Their efforts underscore the critical role local in-person assistance plays in meeting consumers where they are and helping them navigate their health care options.

“We commend Secretary Burwell and the Department of Health and Human Services for the steps they have taken to improve the enrollment process, and we look forward to the next enrollment period and continued efforts to move the country closer to the goal of universal health coverage.”

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About Community Catalyst
Community Catalyst is a national non-profit consumer advocacy organization dedicated to quality affordable health care for all. Community Catalyst works in partnership with national, state and local consumer organizations, policymakers, and foundations, providing leadership and support to change the health care system so it serves everyone – especially vulnerable members of society. For more information, visit www.communitycatalyst.org. Read or comment on our blog at http://blog.communitycatalyst.org/. Follow us on Twitter @healthpolicyhub.