6 problems with Obamacares navigator program
December 17, 2013 3:04 PM
1. Background checks
The report finds the Obama administration failed to conduct any analysis about whether it should require individuals hired by navigator and assister organizations to pass a background check or be fingerprinted.
2. Training
HHS originally said navigator training would be around 20 hours or more, but the House report finds that in actuality, HHS provided for approximately five to 20 hours of training.
3. More training loopholes
The report finds that navigators could attempt to pass the exam at the end of training an unlimited number of times; also, all training was online for the federal exchanges.
4. Vulnerabilities
A CMS whistleblower, according to the House committee, said that every computer and hard drive used by navigators will be hard to track, concluding that Obamacare applicant information is vulnerable.
5. Fraud
According to the House committee, In Dallas, navigators have been caught on camera advising individuals to commit tax fraud by under reporting income in order to gain higher subsidies. In Florida, a navigator impersonator gave a television interview in which she told viewers blatantly incorrect information that applicants credit scores could impact their eligibility for certain plans. The committees list went on
6. No insurance experience
Despite HHS acknowledging that navigators will have little to no insurance experience, the House report says an official testified that it would be logical for the groups to begin community outreach even before they finish training.
