You have most likely heard the confusion surrounding the website for the Health Insurance Marketplace, the government’s new platform for offering affordable health insurance.
While the site may not be fully functional yet, Gadsden Regional’s application counselors can help make things more clear and assist with the sign-up process. Moreover, if you enroll by Dec. 23, you will have health insurance Jan. 1, 2014!
A primary goal of the Affordable Care Act is to help eligible Americans gain access to affordable health care.
Most U.S. citizens are required to enroll for health insurance by March 31, 2014.
Based on household income and dependents, you may be eligible for health insurance coverage at no cost through Medicaid.
Alternatively, you may be eligible for new health insurance options on the Health Insurance Marketplace – and financial help from the government towards the cost of premiums may be available.
“This is where Gadsden Regional can help,” GRMC’s Chief Executive Officer Stephen Pennington said.
“With many people in our community lacking access to a computer or having difficulty enrolling on the government’s website, our application counselors can help.
“We can assist individuals and their families evaluate the available health plan options and determine if they are eligible for Medicaid or other financial assistance.”
All health plans on the Marketplace must offer a comprehensive set of benefits, and individuals cannot be denied coverage based on pre-existing conditions.
Some of the available health benefits include preventive care and wellness services, doctor visits, prescription drugs, hospital and emergency department care, lab services, pediatric services and more.
“Even though Alabama has chosen not to expand Medicaid, there are still many individuals in our community who qualify for Medicaid coverage,” Pennington explained.
“We can help screen these individuals and if they qualify, we can enroll them at any time, with health coverage beginning immediately.”
“While a major function of www.healthcare.gov is assessing whether individuals and families qualify for financial help to lower the cost of the insurance, Gadsden Regional’s application counselors can perform the same analysis and help with the sign-up process,” Pennington said.