Do You Qualify for the HealthCare.gov Special Enrollment Period?
The open enrollment period on HealthCare.gov closed on January 16th. However, this doesn’t mean there are no opportunities for coverage beyond this deadline. In fact, thanks to the Special Enrollment Period offered by HealthCare.gov, there are many. The United Way Healthcare Navigator Program, which assists people in finding affordable, high quality health insurance at HealthCare.gov is ready to assist individuals in navigating this process, ensuring access to vital health insurance coverage even outside of the traditional enrollment window.
The Special Enrollment Period is meant for individuals who are experiencing major changes in their life that require a change or acquisition of health coverage outside of the standard open enrollment period. United Way Healthcare Navigators are trained and certified at identifying these qualifying events, which include losing health coverage due to changes in employment status or household composition, such as marriage, childbirth, adoption, divorce, or legal separation. In addition, they are ready to guide individuals through the enrollment process. Furthermore, if there are changes in residence, or changes to your membership in federally recognized tribes, citizenship status, or transitioning out of incarceration you also might qualify for this special enrollment opportunity. However, it’s important to note that applying for coverage during this period may require the submission of documents verifying eligibility, a process that is facilitated by the Navigators. In addition to facilitating enrollment through HealthCare.gov, United Way Healthcare Navigators are also ready to assist you with your Medicaid and Denali KidCare applications. Yet, these, unlike the Special Enrollment Period, can be submitted at any time throughout the year, with immediate enrollment if you qualify. Furthermore, since the state has re-started the renewal process to verify that you are still eligible for Medicaid, it is very important to maintain up-to-date contact information with the Alaska Department of Public Assistance and promptly respond to any correspondence regarding your Medicaid status. If you find yourself ineligible for Medicaid, Healthcare Navigators offer support in exploring alternative coverage options available through HealthCare.gov. These Navigators provide free, impartial, and accurate information, ensuring individuals make informed decisions regarding their healthcare coverage. “We know health insurance can be complicated,” said Jane Straight, Director Health, Income Impact, United Way of Anchorage. “Our team of highly trained, easy to talk with, Navigators love working with people and eliminating any confusion they may have about coverage, including how to best use it. When folks have the information and support they need to find and enroll in a quality, affordable health insurance plan that best fits their unique needs, they enjoy the peace of mind that comes with protecting both their health and their financial security.” Get in touch with a Navigator by calling 2-1-1 or 1-800-478-2221 or send a text message with the word GETCOVEREDAK to 898-211 for free help. Interpreter services are available. |
