HHS has launched a "tech surge," bringing in management expert and incoming White House economic director Jeffrey Zients, as well as veterans of top Silicon Valley companies. An expanded team of technicians is working round the clock.
Officials, including Mr. Obama, are also encouraging consumers to enroll by telephone (800-318-2596), by mail, or in person with the help of trained "navigators."
Mr. Zients has promised that the site will be functioning smoothly by Nov. 30. If that happens, the problems are not likely to threaten the timeline for the Affordable Care Act (ACA), say health reform analysts.
Still, deadlines might need adjustment, White House officials acknowledge. For now, open enrollment goes until March 31, and one must sign up by then to avoid paying a fine for being uninsured.
