Time is Running Out: 7 Things to Know and Do Ahead of the Health Insurance ‘Open Enrollment’ Deadline

Saturday, Dec. 15 is the deadline to enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace

Time is running out for the Open Enrollment period to secure health coverage through the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace on HealthCare.gov. But many Americans in need of health coverage are unaware that the clock is ticking.

A recent poll by the Kaiser Family Foundation shows most Americans who could be eligible for such health coverage are unaware of the actual enrollment deadline. This poll shows that a majority (61 percent) of Americans most directly affected by Open Enrollment – adults under age 65 who are either uninsured or buy their own insurance – do not know when the enrollment period ends in their state.

As a part of Ascension, St. Vincent believes everyone should have access to healthcare coverage, especially those who need it most. That’s why we want individuals to know the facts about the Open Enrollment deadline and application process so they can take the necessary steps to secure the health coverage they need before it’s too late.

HERE ARE SEVEN THINGS TO KNOW AND DO AHEAD OF THE OPEN ENROLLMENT DEADLINE:

1. Know the deadline. The deadline to enroll in a health plan on the Health Insurance Marketplace is Saturday, Dec. 15, 2018.
2. Gather your information. Before you start the application process, gather the key information you will need to include about yourself and your household. Find the full application checklist at https://www.healthcare.gov/downloads/application-checklist.pdf
3. Explore your options. Compare health plans and prices on HealthCare.gov so you can make a healthy choice for you and your family.
4. Get answers. Find answers to frequently asked questions about health insurance by visiting HealthCare.gov/get-answers.
5. Begin the application process. Visit HealthCare.gov to begin the enrollment process. You can also contact the Marketplace Call Center: 1-800-318-2596 (TTY: 1-855-889-4325). Tell the operator your language you need.
6. Get face-to-face enrollment help near you. Visit localhelp.healthcare.gov to find a person or community group in your area who is trained to help you for free. St. Vincent hospitals also have trained staff who can provide on-site enrollment assistance.
7. Check your eligibility for financial assistance. Find out if you qualify for savings on health coverage. Financial help is available for most people enrolling for health insurance on the marketplace.

To speak with a St. Vincent Evansville representative in more detail about open enrollment, please contact me at 812-485-4897