(Health Insurance Marketplace Deadline Coming Soon by Joanne Cochran, president and CEO of Keystone Health, first appeared in the March 2014 edition of the Public Opinion Newspaper.)
President and CEO of Keystone Health Joanne Cochran shares what you need to know about the March 31 deadline to enroll in marketplace health insurance plans.
The Affordable Care Act
The Affordable Care Act has provided insurance options for everyone in the United States; however, not everyone will opt to purchase an insurance plan through the marketplace. Franklin County citizens are urged to enroll in Medicaid, Medicare, CHIP, or to purchase an affordable plan through the marketplace by March 31, 2014 to avoid paying fines.
What is the Marketplace?
The Health Insurance Marketplace (also called a health exchange) is Pennsylvania’s unique website to comparison shop for customized insurance plans. Americans can shop for themselves, their family or their business, and can compare health plans and sometimes even qualify for reduced premiums and out-of-pocket costs on marketplace based coverage.
The Deadline
The health insurance marketplace is open until March 31st, 2014. You won’t be able to purchase marketplace insurance again until November 15th, 2014 without qualifying for a special enrollment period. Enroll during open enrollment to get access to cost assistance credits and avoid paying the fine for not having insurance in 2014.
Other Options
Although the Affordable Care Act has provided options for everyone in the United States, marketplace insurance isn’t the only option. Franklin County citizens are urged to either enroll in Medicaid, Medicare, CHIP or to purchase an affordable plan through the marketplace to avoid paying fines. There are many options at both the state and federal levels.
What to do now
If you haven’t enrolled in an insurance plan by the March 31 deadline, there are options for help. Remember, even if you do have insurance, any event such as a marriage, the birth of a child or job loss will require you to update your insurance information. Outreach Enrollment Navigators at Keystone Health can help. This service is free. Call (717) 709-7969 for information.
