Brokering a new path: navigating administrative burdens in the health insurance Marketplaces

Millions will become uninsured when Affordable Care Act enhanced subsidies expire and new, stricter enrollment regulations take effect in 2026. Reductions in federal enrollment assistance that have helped coverage seekers navigate administrative burdens mean that health insurance brokers will be critical in mitigating Marketplace coverage losses. Brokers can be a strong force for maintaining Marketplace enrollment, particularly when the markets they operate in are structured to minimize bad behavior and to maximize outreach. This commentary argues that a robust broker infrastructure is necessary to help Marketplace enrollees retain coverage. We outline how brokers can help people navigate new administrative burdens to Marketplace enrollment and review 2 innovative models for maximizing outreach among people more likely to be uninsured.