By: Tammy Babcock, MHA, RRT-NPS
Executive Director, Coastal Health & Wellness
No one plans to get sick or injured, but everyone should. I’m not talking about literally putting yourself in unhealthy or dangerous situations. I’m talking about having health insurance for when illness or injury inevitably strikes you or your family.
Access to health insurance is easier and more affordable than ever with the Federal Health Insurance Marketplace, commonly referred to as Obamacare. The next marketplace open enrollment period is November 1, 2016 through January 31, 2017 and Coastal Health & Wellness has certified application counselors who can help you apply for coverage. Best of all…our assistance is free!
Depending on your income, you may qualify for assistance paying your monthly health care premiums. Applicants may also qualify for exemptions from paying a penalty on tax returns. For example, someone with income under the income guidelines may be exempt from the tax penalty. However, people who do not enroll may face a tax penalty, which will increase every year. This may sound confusing, but we can help you figure out exactly what it means for you.
A great benefit of health care in the Marketplace is that all essential health benefits are covered. This includes maternity care, mammograms and other preventative care services. You cannot be denied health coverage for having a pre-existing condition such as diabetes, hypertension or cancer.
There is no open enrollment for individuals to apply for Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program, or the Texas Woman’s Health Program. Individuals may qualify for a special Marketplace enrollment period if they experience certain “qualifying life events” like marriage, relocation, income change, or birth, for example, at any time during the year.
Galveston County residents with questions about the Federal Health Insurance Marketplace can call Coastal Health & Wellness at (409) 978-4225 or visit the clinic at 9850-C Emmett F. Lowry Expressway in Texas City to speak with our certified application counselors.
Whether you currently don’t have coverage, are underinsured or want to explore other plans that may better fit your needs, you do not want to let the Marketplace open enrollment period pass you by. We’re here to help.
Learn more at www.gchd.org/openenrollment.
