For thousands of Arizonans, access to health insurance is not just about selecting a plan – it’s about finding guidance through a complicated and ever-changing system. That’s where Navigators come in. These professionals provide a lifeline, helping people in underserved communities enroll in coverage, understand their options, and stay insured even as their life circumstances change. But with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service’s announcement in February of a 90% cut in Navigator funding, the future of this essential support system is in jeopardy.
Despite this massive reduction, Claudia Maldonado, director of outreach and enrollment services at Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers (AACHC), remains steadfast in her mission to connect Arizonans with the coverage they need. Here, Claudia shares insights on the impact of Navigators, the challenges ahead, and how she and her partners are adapting to continue serving the community.
How have Navigators helped improve access to health coverage for Arizona communities?
Navigators have been instrumental in building trust within communities and providing education on affordable healthcare options. Many individuals are unaware of the resources available to them, and Navigators help bridge that gap through outreach, one-on-one assistance, and strong community partnerships. Trust is the foundation of our work – without it, many people wouldn’t feel comfortable seeking help.
What barriers still exist in reaching uninsured individuals, and how is AACHC working to address them?
The biggest challenge is awareness. Many uninsured individuals don’t realize they qualify for affordable coverage, whether it’s Medicaid, employer-based insurance, or ACA plans. To combat this, AACHC and our partners work with school districts, food banks, and other community organizations to spread the word and connect people with resources.
Claudia Maldonado advocating for Navigators at a roundtable discussion at Adelante Healthcare in 2024.
What are the biggest challenges Navigators face when assisting individuals with health insurance enrollment?
Navigating eligibility across different programs can be complex, especially for families whose members qualify for multiple types of coverage. We ensure that our Navigators stay up to date on program changes so they can provide the most accurate guidance possible.
How has the role of a Navigator evolved over the years?
The core mission has remained the same, but the way we measure impact has changed. It’s not just about enrolling people in health plans – it’s also about teaching them how to use their insurance and making sure they understand the system.
What can be done to further support the work of Navigators?
Advocacy is key. We need to continue highlighting the importance of Navigators and push for solutions that make healthcare access easier for Arizonans.
What message do you have for Arizonans who are still uninsured and hesitant to enroll?
Talk to a Navigator. A trained, unbiased professional can walk you through your options and help you find a plan that works for you.
What will a funding cut mean for the Navigator program?
It means fewer Navigators available to assist the community, which could limit access to help for many individuals who need guidance.
With fewer Navigators available, what other resources do uninsured Arizonans have to find and understand their health insurance options?
Though in-person services may be reduced, we still assist people over the phone. This is especially crucial for rural areas where Navigators aren’t as readily available.
With the impending funding reduction, how will AACHC help to ensure that uninsured Arizonans still have access to the help they need?
We’re doubling down on phone appointments, a strategy that was highly effective during the pandemic. Phone appointments allow us to maintain a statewide presence, even with reduced staffing.
The Navigator program has weathered funding cuts before. What strategies proved most effective in keeping enrollment support going, and how are those lessons being applied now?
We rely on partnerships and outreach to keep services accessible. Data also plays a major role – by analyzing trends, we can allocate resources where they’re needed most. These strategies help us continue to serve Arizona’s uninsured, even in the face of funding cuts.
Moving Forward
While the Navigator program is facing one of its toughest challenges yet, Claudia and her team remain committed to ensuring that Arizonans don’t lose access to critical health coverage assistance.
Now more than ever, community support and advocacy are essential. If you or someone you know needs help understanding their health insurance options, reach out to a Navigator through Cover Arizona at 1-800-377-3536.
By Laura Hahnefeld
Director of Communications, Arizona Alliance for Community Health Centers
