Gov. Ned Lamont and Connecticut's health care exchange announced plans Wednesday to launch "Broker Academy," a training program for licensed independent insurance brokers.
The ultimate goal? Expanding access to heath coverage in underserved communities.
The program, run by Access Health CT, will begin in June, in greater Hartford, New Haven and Bridgeport, with 100 applicants.
Those chosen will receive free training, a three-month apprenticeship with an experienced insurance broker, professional development and program support, including a free laptop computer.
Applications will be available starting Friday at accesshealthct.com.
Potential applicants and mentors can e-mail questions to AHCT.BrokerAcademy@ct.gov.
James Michel, the chief executive of Access Health CT, says once these brokers are licensed, they will be certified to sell insurance on the state's health care exchange and will not be tied to any particular insurance carriers.
"We don't get anything from them other than the benefit of them doing good work for their communities in helping us to lower the uninsured and move closer to eliminating health disparities in Connecticut," Michel said.
The plan is to have the brokers in the markets by November, when enrollment in the exchange begins.
"It will increase the opportunity for coverage, especially at a time when health insurance is more affordable than ever for many through Access Health and the subsidies provided by the American Rescue Plan," said Insurance Commissioner Andrew Mais.
Michel said plans call for expanding the program to other cities after the initial program is complete.
Lamont, who said that 5% of Connecticut's population remains uninsured, will also propose funds to eliminate health insurance copays and deductibles for low-income people.