FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Jenni Bowring-McDonough
Media Relations Coordinator

ST. PAUL, Minn.-Six MNsure-certified broker agencies saw their qualified health plan enrollment numbers increase more than 14 times over last year, thanks to a new MNsure broker lead agency pilot program launched at the beginning of the 2015 open enrollment period.

The lead agencies provide and staff a convenient walk-in office for residents of surrounding communities to find face-to-face assistance from MNsure-certified brokers, navigators and other assisters.

"The success of this pilot program is undeniable, both in terms of increased in-person enrollment opportunities and strengthening our relationships with our broker partners," said CEO Scott Leitz. "Our lead agencies partnered with other MNsure assisters to maximize in-person enrollment help for both public programs and private plan coverage, which resulted in more Minnesotans getting the peace of mind that health insurance brings."

As of January 30, the agencies-located in Willmar, Waconia, Austin, Bloomington, Roseville and Woodbury-have enrolled 1,440 Minnesotans into private plan coverage. Every agency saw an increase in their MNsure enrollments since the inception of the lead agency model, with enrollments increased significantly over last year. LeClair Group in Woodbury has helped more than 830 consumers to enroll into 2015 coverage, as compared to enrolling fewer than 50 into 2014 plans.

"LeClair Group is proud to partner with MNsure as a lead agency. We welcome the opportunity to assist individuals and families throughout the open enrollment period," said Margaret Lett of LeClair Group. "Being host to a wide range of well-trained navigators and brokers at our Woodbury offices has been an additional benefit and allowed us to understand, learn and share knowledge with each other."

"This has been great, to work directly with MNsure this year. I hope to partner with them for many years to come. The comment we get the most is, 'it's nice that we have someone that we can see, who is close by,'" said Tim Jopp of Legacy Benefit Consultants.

"The Lead Agency program has been very successful for the local consumers we helped enroll, and I look forward to participating again next fall if the opportunity presents itself," added Hal Tiffany of the Hal Tiffany Agency.

MNsure and the selected lead agencies combined marketing efforts to encourage Minnesotans to visit the MNsure-branded walk-in sites, get their questions answered in person and get enrolled into coverage.

"Insurance agents and brokers proved to be a crucial resource for Minnesotans who enrolled through the marketplace this year, and this partnership project has both fortified our relationships with MNsure-certified brokers and agents and made enrolling easier for consumers," said MNsure Director of Broker Relations Ken Harpell.

Open enrollment for 2015 coverage began November 15, 2014, and ends February 15, 2015. Minnesotans eligible for Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare can enroll year-round. As of May 2014, 95 percent of Minnesotans have health coverage-the highest percentage in state history.