The deadline to enroll in the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace is approaching.
Iowans have until Saturday, Jan. 15, to enroll. If someone misses this open enrollment period, they may not be able to get coverage again until 2023.
Iowa Navigator, a federally funded, non-profit organization that helps families and other underserved communities gain access to health coverage options through the Marketplace, Medicaid, or CHIP, is encouraging residents to enroll as soon as possible to take advantage of Marketplace coverage.
The Marketplace is offered to anyone who is not eligible for insurance through Medicare, Medicaid, or employer-based insurance. Enrollment is up nationally with 13.6 million people getting health coverage.
IA Navigator is encouraging anyone eligible to check into the marketplace – even if they have checked in on it before.
“Most people will be able to qualify for substantially lower costs this year if they get their insurance on the Marketplace,” said Jeremy Smith, program director for IA Navigator. “We are really urging people to look at the new plans and prices that are being released this year. In a lot of cases, the plans are more affordable than we have ever seen.”
Mr. Smith says getting help signing up is important, as many people are overwhelmed by the options or may not realize how to shop for affordable health coverage.
IA Navigator can assist with enrollment applications and help consumers receive financial assistance through HealthCare.gov. To make the enrollment process more accessible, IA Navigator can assist people over the phone or via a telehealth option that allows people to see their application being completed.
Consumers enrolling in a plan on HealthCare.gov are guaranteed to receive comprehensive coverage, with no pre-existing condition exclusions or markups. All plans cover essential benefits, including doctor and hospital visits, prescription drugs, mental health treatment, and maternity care. In addition, consumers receive free preventive care services, such as immunizations and health screenings. Testing and treatment of COVID-19 are considered essential health benefits and are covered by all HealthCare.gov plans.
To reach IA Navigator, call (515) 978-9570 or visit their website at acanavigator.com.
