Oklahomans purchasing health insurance on the federal exchange will be better protected by a new set of emergency rules. The rules were submitted by Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John D. Doak and approved by Gov. Mary Fallin. The rules ensure that all registered navigators are properly trained and obeying Oklahoma laws.
"Our purpose here is to protect consumers," said Doak. "The roles and duties of navigators are very different than those of insurance agents and brokers. It's my job as insurance commissioner to make sure consumers are being treated fairly. I will take administrative action against any navigator who crosses the line and performs duties exclusive to insurance agents and brokers."
Anyone wishing to operate as a navigator in the state of Oklahoma must prove they meet the qualifications and submit an application to the Oklahoma Insurance Department. Navigators must be approved by the federal government, undergo a background check and pay the required fees before operating in the state of Oklahoma.
According to Oklahoma statute, navigators must do the following:
- Provide a disclaimer to each person or entity assisted.
- Record the contact information for each person or group they assist.
- Submit to an inspection from the Insurance Commissioner at any time.
- Pay a $25 annual fee (individuals) or $50 annual fee (entities).
- Report to the Insurance Commissioner any administrative action taken by a governmental entity against the navigator within 30 days.
- Report to the Insurance Commissioner any criminal prosecution of the navigator within 30 days of the pretrial hearing date.
- Notify the Insurance commissioner of any action that restricts the navigator's authorization to act as navigator.
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