BOISE - The Idaho Health Insurance Exchange announced new members who will assist in outreach and educate Idaho citizens about the new exchange that will launch this fall.

Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, or Obamacare, Idaho faces a federal deadline of Oct. 1 to have in place an online marketplace that will allow Idahoans to compare and purchase health insurance plans.

People who have existing health insurance will not be required to use the exchange, however many Idahoans might find it a useful tool to find information about health insurance and coverage options that are best for their families.

"There is still much work to be done to ensure that Idaho's Exchange is operational by October and to make Idahoans aware of the exchange and the insurance options available to them during the open enrollment period," said Amy Dowd, executive director of the exchange. "I am confident that the team we have assembled here in Idaho will be able to get the job done."

Jody Olson has been named director of communications and marketing. She has an extensive background in all aspects of communications, marketing and public relations, with expertise in non-profit management and marketing, as well as consumer advocacy.

Alberto Gonzalez has been named operations project manager. Gonzalez is a former bureau chief for the Department of Health and Welfare. He is focusing on the consumer assistance program as well as call center operations that launch in October.

Along with a full-time staff, the Exchange has hired a communications team led by Gallatin Public Affairs to assist with outreach efforts.

Other members of the team include Boise-based GS Strategy Group, a firm with local and national expertise in public opinion and consumer behavior research, and Burson-Marsteller, a full-service, integrated public relations firm with vast experience in large scale public education campaigns.

The team will conduct state-wide market research, create an initial exchange website, develop a communication strategy, create educational materials for use around the state, manage media relations and develop the exchange's new branding.

The exchange was established through legislation signed into law earlier this year to provide an online marketplace where Idaho families and small businesses can go to compare and purchase health insurance.

It is governed by a 19-member board which is creating the rules and regulations for implementing the exchange.

Stephen Weeg of Pocatello, a retired executive director of Health West, serves as chairman of the Board.

The board must establish an exchange by Jan. 1 as required by federal law.