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Enrollment in Georgia's federally–run health insurance marketplace starts in less than a month. The Department of Health and Human Services says more than 316,000 Georgians signed up for coverage during the first enrollment period, which ended in March.

Those looking for help can turn to "navigators." They are people who are especially trained to help consumers find the right health plan and check if they're eligible for tax credits to offset the cost.

Many consumers who tried to sign up for coverage earlier this year were frustrated by a lack of assistance, says Ben Thomases of Seedco, which will have more than 20 navigators in Georgia.

“So one thing we'll be changing is gearing more of our outreach materials to specifically talk about the availability services and to encourage consumers who are seeking in–person assistance to contact us, as opposed to just going to healthcare.gov or calling the call center."

Seedco and Macon-based Community Health Works are splitting a $3.3 million federal grant for Georgia navigators.

Meanwhile, the University of Georgia has shut down its navigator program. Earlier this year, the General Assembly passed a bill which forbids state agencies from providing assistance with the Affordable Care Act.

The second round of open enrollment begins November 15.

Tags: Bradley George, Affordable Care Act, navigators, Seedco, Ben Thomases, healthcare navigators, obamacare, University of Georgia