We all know that the Affordable Care Act, aka Obamacare, has been under siege since a plump, orange-skinned man was elected into office. But the Marketplace coverage — designed for people who can't afford health insurance or were denied coverage due to a preexisting condition — is still alive and kicking.
It's open enrollment season ladies (and fellas), courtesy of SELF, here's everything you need to know about signing up for a plan through the health insurance marketplace:
1. Decide Which Marketplace plan is right for you
First off, for the 25 and under crew, know that it is entirely possible for you to be covered under your parent's insurance plan.
For all the 25 and up she-brethren, depending on your employment, there are a few options for you:
Employer-Sponsored Plans
This plan allows you to apply for coverage through your job. Essentially, your employer will take on responsibility for a significant amount of the costs of your health care. What does this mean? Well, specifically your premiums (aka your monthly fees) will be taken directly out of your paycheck. If your employer offers health insurance and you aren't covered under a parent or spouse's plan, then this type of plan might be right for you.
Student Insurance
This plan will gives the responsibility of your healthcare costs to your college or university. If you are a student (including grad student) who can't get on a parent's plan and are 26 or older, this plan may be right for you. **Note: Not all colleges and universities offer this, and some only apply during the school year.
Medicaid
Supported by both the state and federal program, this plan provides health coverage to people who meet specific low-income requirements. If you are pregnant or have significant health needs, adjustments can be made to meet your circumstance. Each state has its own version of the program, so exact policies may vary across the U.S. **Note: You must be a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen to receive Medicaid.
Medicare
This plan offers health coverage to those who are 65 years or older, people who have disabilities, and those with specific health issues. Each comes with its own eligibility requirements: Part A refers to hospital insurance and Part B covers Medicare insurance.
Marketplace Plan
This plan provides subsidies to low- and middle-income citizens. Each plan receives support from major insurance companies in four "metal" categories: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. **Note: Bronze and Silver plans have lower premiums, but higher costs. Whereas, Gold and Platinum plans have higher premiums and lower costs.
If you're under 65, you aren't covered under your parent's insurance, if your employer doesn't offer health benefits (because you're working part-time or you're self-employed), and if your income is too high for Medicare — this plan may be right for you.
2. Enroll in Affordable Care Act (ACA) at healthcare.gov
From there, you will be asked to input your zip code. Then, the site will direct you to your state's site.
3. The deadline to enroll is December 15th
WE REPEAT — the last day you can enroll is December 15th! Caitlin Donovan, Director of Outreach and Public Affairs at the National Patient Advocate Foundation, told SELF:
Although that sounds like you've got a lot of time, there are some crucial things you'll have to do before actually picking your plan. Plus, the site will be unavailable for scheduled maintenance for several hours every Sunday but the last one before the deadline. So, really, the sooner you can get going, the better.
4. Gather all your personal information before choosing a plan
For the upcoming year, be sure to have a general idea of your income and budget. It doesn't need to be exact, according to Donovan, but "you'll beed to know roughly what you're able to spend on your premium, appointments with specialists, or surprise hospital trip".
Donovan also told SELF:
You'll also need to know your general tax information to determine if you qualify. I recommend that everyone at least check to see if they qualify.
5. Be aware prices may be as high as last year, though it may be possible to find a cheaper plan
According to SELF, this year consumers "will see the addition of 23 insurers during open enrollment, and in some places premiums have gone down".
Erin Hemlin, National Director of Training and Consumer Education at Young Invincibles, stated to SELF:
Compared to last year, things are looking pretty good for consumers. You’re likely to have more choices and prices will look similar to last year, if not a little bit cheaper.
6. Go with healthcare.gov over third-party sites
Plans outside heathcare.gov aren't compliant with the ACA standards, and aren't held accountable to meet the same requirements.
7. If this is too much, that's okay! You have help
Applying for basic healthcare should never be this extensive, but unfortunately, it is. Thankfully, there are representatives out there readily available to provide you with some assistance. Hemlin suggested to SELF to check out the Get Covered Connector from Young Invincibles, which will "connect you with someone nearby who can walk you through the process in person".
Ultimately, we want you beautiful ladies to be healthy in leading your life of success and happiness. Undoubtedly, you deserve the best care possible to fulfill a long and healthy life.
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