Now that the Affordable Care Act special enrollment period is expired, what choices to you have?
Short Term Medical Plans are available 365 days a year and offer coverage from one month up to 36 months. These plans have qualifying medical questions and pre-existing conditions are not covered. They are less costly than Affordable Care Act plans without a subsidized premium. Child-only plans are available. All Short Term Medical Plans are Preferred Provider Organizations (PPO). These are a good option for those who qualify and want to enroll in an Affordable Care Act plan for 2022.
Affordable Care Act plans are still available if you have a qualifying event for a special enrollment period such as moved into the state, had a baby, got married, lost your job, are getting a divorce, etc. There is no underwriting for these plans and they cover pre-existing conditions. You may or may not qualify for a premium subsidy or cost sharing. Child-only plans are available. All Affordable Care Plans are Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO).
Indemnity/Limited Benefit plans are first dollar benefit plans that typically do not have a deductible and pay a set benefit for medical procedures. These plans can be less costly than either Short Term Medical Plans or Affordable Care Act Plans. They do not offer child-only plans. There is no network so an insured can go to any doctor of their choice.
All of these options require specific information to determine the best plan for your needs and budget. Please contact me to ensure that you are getting the right health insurance plan for you and/or your family. Just a reminder, there is no cost for my services.
October 15th – December 7th – Medicare Annual Election Period. Changes can be made to Medicare Advantage Plans and Medicare Prescription Drug plans for an effective date of 01/01/2022.
November 1st – December 15th – Affordable Care Act Plan Open Enrollment. This may be extended. You can enroll or change your Affordable Care Act Plan for an effective of 01/01/2022.
Following the COVID pandemic, many professionals have predicted a “second pandemic” of mental health problems. The lockdown, the fears, the housing and supply shortages, more alcohol consumption, less physical activity, … all of these things combine to cause strain on our emotions and mental health.
The ACA extended enrollment ends on Aug 15th. If you had unemployment benefits in 2021, you may be entitled to a larger subsidy. Contact me for details!
Check your medical records once a year! It’s very important for you to review the records due to mis-information being reported which can affect your ability to qualify for some health and life insurance policies. Request your report by visiting the Medical Information Bureau at https:www.mib.com or call 866-692-6901.
