COLUMBUS – Ohio insurance consumers saved or recovered nearly $37 million in 2020 by utilizing Department of Insurance services, director Judith L. French announced. Department staff resolved insurance coverage and claim disputes, outlined suitable insurance options, and identified financial assistance programs.
“National Consumer Protection Week is a time to help people understand their consumer rights and make well-informed decisions. Our top priority at the Ohio Department of Insurance is to educate and protect Ohioans,” French said. “I urge consumers to contact us with their insurance questions and concerns. Our services are free and unbiased.”
The department’s Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program saved Ohioans on Medicare $30.4 million while engaging 462,000 people through counseling and events. The Office of Consumer Affairs, which addresses non-Medicare issues, such as for automobile, homeowners, and health insurance, saved $6.2 million for consumers. Staff handled 15,393 inquiries and 5,315 complaints. The department addresses wide-ranging insurance topics, most recently involving COVID-19 and health insurance, mental health insurance and substance use disorder, and weather-related property damage.
The department regulates one of the world’s largest insurance markets. Oversight involves licensing insurance companies and agents, monitoring insurance industry financial solvency and business conduct, reviewing insurance products and rates, and fighting insurance fraud.
To talk with a department insurance expert, consumers should call 1-800-686-1526 and 1-800-686-1578 for Medicare help. Educational insurance information is available at www.insurance.ohio.gov, where consumers can initiate insurance complaints.