Fraud Fear Raised In California’s Health Exchange

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Consumer groups are worried that California’s uninsured could fall victim to fraud, identity theft or other crimes by some of the very people who are supposed to help them.

More than 21,000 enrollment counselors will be hired to provide consumers with in-person assistance in using California’s health insurance exchange, which opens in October.

But state Insurance Commissioner Dave Jones and anti-fraud groups say the exchange is falling short in ensuring that the people hired as counselors are adequately screened and monitored.

Jones also says the exchange, called Covered California, does not have a plan for investigating complaints. That means consumers who might fall prey to identity theft or other abuses could have a hard time seeking justice.

Exchange spokesman Santiago Lucero says Covered California has made consumer safety a priority.