November 25, 2020 - It’s healthcare enrollment season, a time to protect you and your loved ones by considering your insurance coverage options. “This year more than ever before, having healthcare coverage is one of the most important things you can do for your family,” said Jeff Patterson, Nacogdoches Medical Center CEO. “If you’re not covered by an employer, the Health Insurance Marketplace has many affordable plans to cover essential health benefits, pre-existing conditions and preventive care services.”
Healthcare Marketplace plans can include coverage for things like ambulatory services, ER and hospitalization care, maternity and newborn care, mental health and substance abuse services, help with prescription drugs, rehabilitative services and devices, lab services, chronic disease management, and pediatric services, among others. Some of the free screenings provided in an Exchange plan can include blood pressure, cholesterol, depression, and Type 2 diabetes. Insurance plans can also help kick a habit and get vaccinated against a wide variety of diseases.
“Injuries or illnesses happen when you least expect them, and they can be expensive,” says Patterson. “Insurance can help pay unexpected bills and provide access to primary care options, which can help you stay healthy, identify risk factors, manage chronic disease and prevent unnecessary trips to the emergency room.”
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is the health reform law that was passed in March 2010. This law increases access to health insurance for people who previously could not get insurance. Individuals with pre-existing conditions such as cancer, diabetes, asthma, mental illness or any other illnesses cannot be denied coverage. Affordable health insurance options have become available through private insurers in the Health Insurance Marketplace and through public programs like Medicaid. To be eligible for health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace you must be a U.S. citizen currently living in the U.S or a legal resident currently living in the U.S. Health insurance plans in the Marketplace range from catastrophic to platinum.
“We encourage everyone to look into the many health insurance options available to them,” recommends Patterson.
More information on 2021 ACA Health Insurance Enrollment can be found at https://www.healthcare.gov or by calling 866-893-8446. The enrollment deadline is December 15, 2020. Coverage starts January 1, 2021.
