As people ask questions on this site and of the NDNRC, we will begin to compile a list of Frequently Asked Questions in order to assist those who are enrolling people with disabilities in health plans.
What is the NDNRC?
The National Disability Navigator Resource Collaborative (NDNRC) is an initiative of seven national cross-disability organizations in order to provide disability information and support to navigators and other enrollment specialists as they assist consumers with enrollment through the Affordable Care Act insurance marketplaces.
Who makes up the NDNRC?
The NDNRC is made up of seven national cross-disability organizations. Led by the American Association on Health and Disability (AAHD), the other six partner organizations are: the American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD), the Disability Rights and Education Defense Fund (DREDF), NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness), the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), the Arc and the United Spinal Association. In addition to these seven partner organizations, there are also many other organizations who support the project as “Friends of the NDNRC.”
What is the purpose of the NDNRC?
It is estimated when the Affordable Care Act was passed in 2010 that 3.5 million people between the ages of 16 and 65 were uninsured and also had pre-existing medical conditions and/or disabilities. These individuals will face multiple options when enrolling for health insurance coverage under the Affordable Care Act’s Marketplaces. The NDNRC aims to provide technical assistance to those who will be assisting these uninsured individuals so that the consumers can enroll in an appropriate health insurance plan given the individual’s needs.
Who is the NDNRC designed to help?
The NDNRC is meant to assist the CMS funded navigator programs as well as other enrollment specialists, such as state-based navigators, connectors, assisters and certified application counselors. However, the NDNRC will also develop the material with a consumer friendly approach so that it will be of use to disability advocates and consumers with disabilities who are enrolling in a health insurance plan.
What kind of materials will the NDNRC be developing?
The NDNRC will develop disability-content materials, including a technical assistance guide and 17 fact sheets addressing various topics that are critical for consideration as consumers with disabilities enroll in health insurance plans. As information becomes available, the NDNRC will also develop materials that address state-specific information.
How are you supported?
The NDNRC is made possible through a 12 month grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.