MNsure Says It’s Ready for Rush of Business in Third Year

ST. PAUL (AP) - MNsure officials say they're ready to handle a flood of customers when open enrollment begins Sunday.

The exchange is heading into its third round of open enrollment with more call center staff. Interim Chief Executive Officer Allison O'Toole said Wednesday they're already receiving calls from consumers worried about double-digit premium hikes for next year.

O'Toole expects those rate increases to drive more business to MNsure after two years of lackluster enrollment. The exchange is touting tax credits to help soothe sticker shock.

Call center operations manager Steve Minikel says they've hired about 25 more employees since last year to help answer questions.

MNsure is also launching a new tool sometime next week that will help consumers compare insurance plan deductibles, co-pays and other costs. Open enrollment runs through Jan. 31.