Michigan receives federal grant to expand accessibility of health insurance

By

Patrick Jones

|

The State of Michigan recently received a new $3.3 million federal grant to expand health insurance coverage and access to uninsured and underserved Michiganders. The grant will expand programs to increase qualified health insurance navigators to assist communities in obtaining health coverage. 

 

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Health insurance navigators aim to facilitate the process of enrollment in health insurance for those who are uninsured in Michigan. This grant would give more funds to navigator organizations to expand their programs. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said:

“For some Michiganders, having free, local help from qualified Navigators can be the difference between getting coverage and going without vital protection. I’m thankful that the Biden-Harris administration recognized this need, both in Michigan and nationwide, and has made this important funding available. These grants will have a direct and positive impact on the lives of Michigan residents.”

Three parent organizations of navigator groups will receive funding and how much they will receive: 

  • Arab Community Center for Economic & Social Services (ACCESS) – $2,640,159
  • Eastern Michigan University – $435,784
  • Genesee Health Plan Corporation – $219,492

The target populations of these groups are underserved and minority populations, those eligible but not enrolled in Medicaid, pregnant women, and new mothers. 

Anita Fox, director of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services, said:

“The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of high quality, affordable health insurance, and we do not want anyone to avoid signing up because they worry that the enrollment process might be difficult. By logging on to LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov or by calling 800-318-2596, Michiganders can access free assistance to enroll in a 2022 Marketplace plan, Medicaid, or Michigan’s MIChild program.”

More than $80 million will be granted to over 60 Navigator organizations across the country as part of the nationwide 2021 Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Navigator cooperative agreement. Organizations applied through CMS to receive this aid. Awardees of the grant include hospitals, community and consumer-focused non-profits, faith-based organizations, tribal organizations, and trade and professional organizations.