MNsure Races to Ready Exchange For Open Enrollment

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Officials racing to ready Minnesota's health insurance exchange for open enrollment next month say there are risks ahead but they expect consumers will have a better experience than last year.

Managers from the state's information technology agency told the MNsure board Wednesday that extensive testing is under way to make sure the web site and other systems are as ready as possible by Nov. 15, when individuals can start shopping again for private health insurance via the state-run exchange.

MNsure's inaugural open enrollment period got off to a rocky start last year due to serious computer problems and the ensuing long waits for help from its call center.

MNsure executive director, Scott Leitz, told the board more financial assistance will be available to offset the higher rates coming for 2015.