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Breaking down the health exchanges
By: Bob Seehausen, senior vice president, business development and sales
On Oct. 1, the health exchange – or Health Insurance Marketplace – opened for enrollment. Now, eligible Americans in every state have access to new, affordable health insurance options. In North and South Carolina, plans will be available for purchase by those who buy their own insurance, those who are uninsured and those who are not eligible for Medicaid or Medicare. Insurance plans purchased through the Marketplace will cover doctor visits, hospitalizations, maternity care, emergency room care and prescriptions, regardless of preexisting conditions.
 Understanding the Marketplace can be confusing and overwhelming, but Novant Health is committed to being a trusted resource. We are one of the few health systems in the area to become a designated certified application counselor (CAC) organization, and close to 100 Novant Health financial navigators will become CACs, which means they will be able to educate our patients and the community on their options for coverage. We are also hosting community information education sessions in Charlotte on Nov. 6, and in Salisbury on Nov. 14, where participants can learn about and sign up for coverage offered through the Marketplace. Learn more about our Health Insurance Marketplace events.
As you continue to learn about and research your options for health insurance, here are some frequently asked questions you will find helpful:
Who is eligible for coverage through the Marketplace?
Americans who are uninsured, who purchase their own insurance and who do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare are eligible.
Subsidized premiums and benefits may be available for those who purchase insurance through the Marketplace. The subsidies are available for people with a household income between 100 percent and 400 percent of the federal poverty level. For example, a family of four with a household income between $23,550 and $94,500 would qualify for a subsidy.
Where can I view available plans?
The website for the Marketplace is Healthcare.gov. North Carolina, South Carolina and Virginia do not have state-run marketplace, so residents of those states will participate in the federal program.
How do I enroll in the Marketplace?
You may enroll in the Marketplace by filling out an application form. Forms may be filled out beginning Oct. 1 by:
- Visiting Healthcare.gov.
- Calling the Marketplace Call Center at 1-800-318-2596. TTY users should call 1-855-889-4325.
- Mailing a paper copy of the application.
What information do I need in order to apply?
The Marketplace offers a variety of health plans to meet various needs and budgets. Before applying, research the different options and plan your budget.
When you apply, have this information available:
- Social Security numbers (or document numbers for legal immigrants)
- Birth dates
- Pay stubs, W-2 forms or “Wage and Tax Statements”
- Policy numbers for any current health insurance
- Information about any health insurance you or your family could get from your jobs
For more information about the Health Insurance Marketplace and Novant Health’s information events, please visit our health exchange webpage. |
