News Release - Libraries to Serve as Portal to Health Information and Insurance

Monroe County Library System

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Rochester, NY, September 5, - The Monroe County Library System (MCLS) will assist County residents with accessing enrollment information when open enrollment for the Health Insurance Marketplace component of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) begins on October 1, 2013. 

MCLS is designating the week of September 9 “Operation Insure,” and will be screening a 45 minute movie throughout the Rochester Public Library branches and the surrounding town libraries that introduces the Health Insurance Marketplace.  The movie will be shown at different times and different locations throughout the day, every day, to accommodate varying schedules. The movie provides background information that will be helpful when enrolling. Library staff will not be answering specific questions regarding the Marketplace but will advise patrons to visit www.healthcare.gov, www.cuidadodesalud.gov, or to call 1-800-318-2596.

Starting in October, specially trained certified Navigators will be available to provide one-on-one assistance through Anthony Jordan Health Center and the Monroe County Legal Assistance Center. 

Research conducted by the American Library Association (ALA) shows that Americans regularly turn to their local libraries as a trusted resource for information regarding government initiatives and programs. A recent study showed that more than a third of library computer users (28 million people) use library computers and seek assistance from librarians for health and wellness issues, including learning about medical conditions, finding health care providers, and assessing health insurance options. A 2012 ALA study found that 97 percent of libraries reported assisting library patrons with applying for and accessing e-government services.

 “Just as our communities turn to libraries for help to learn about citizenship and passport requirements, use public access computers to get disaster relief information and obtain assistance with copyright and patent questions, we expect libraries will receive many inquiries from the public about the Affordable Care Act,” stated ALA President Barbara Stripling.  As always, libraries do not promote specific programs or points of view, but provide the public with balanced, unbiased access to information.  

View the schedule 

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