What is Changing in the ACA for 2018?

Open enrollment for the Affordable Care Act (ACA), 2018 health insurance plans began on November 1, 2017 and ends December 15, 2017.  During open enrollment you have an opportunity to review your coverage, compare plans, and switch to a new plan if you find a better option. The five points below are suggestions to assist with enrollment.

First. There is less time this year to enroll or change your plan. According to USA Today, “Trump has halved the time people can buy insurance” and “cut the national advertising budget and the grants for navigators.” Additionally, “the federal website used to buy insurance for 39 states will be closed for maintenance for up to 12 hours every Sunday.” (Fri., Oct. 13, 2017)

Second. If you already enrolled, you will be automatically re-enrolled in your existing plan if it is still available. However, even if you can continue in the plan you now have, you should read it carefully because there will be changes from the previous year.

Third. If you are currently uninsured, you can use the state marketplace to compare plans and enroll in a plan that meets your needs.

Fourth. Pay attention to the following crucial dates:
• November 1 – December 15. Open enrollment for health insurance coverage is available during this time only. “Navigators” are there to help 24/7 call 1-800-318-2596. (After the December 15 deadline, you may not be able to make a change until 2019.)
• January 1. Your premium must be paid by this date in order to have coverage begin on January 1, 2018.

Fifth. You can visit HealthCare.gov (or call 1-800-318-2596) to learn about your options through the Marketplace. (The list for 2018 Florida Healthcare Insurance Coverage will not be available until open enrollment begins November1.)

Even though there is a lot of talk about “repeal and replace” to our health care laws, the Affordable Care Act is still the law of the land. While you are required to comply with the ACA, you are still entitled to its benefits.

The Democrats of Indian River County are fighting hard against any forms of repeal of the Affordable Care Act. We believe that healthcare is a right for all citizens.

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