Maryland Health Insurance Marketplace Sees Continued Growth in Open Enrollment Period
Enrollment in the state’s health insurance marketplace has been on the rise during the current open enrollment period, and state officials are optimistic that the numbers will continue to increase before enrollment closes this month. Marylanders looking to purchase private insurance have until December 31st to start coverage in January. For those who miss that deadline, there is still an opportunity to sign up for coverage that will begin in February, with a deadline of January 15th.
Increasing Enrollment Numbers
According to Michele Eberle, the executive director of the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange overseeing the marketplace, over 217,000 Marylanders have purchased private health care plans through Maryland Health Connection in the past year. This marks a 2% increase compared to the same period last year, indicating a growing trend of people utilizing the marketplace to obtain coverage.
Eberle emphasized the importance of getting more people insured, stating, “That’s what we’re always trying to do, is get more people insured. So that’s good.” She urges Maryland residents without health insurance or those interested in exploring other insurance options to browse plans on the marketplace before the open enrollment period ends.
Important Deadlines and Coverage Details
Open enrollment is a crucial time nationwide for individuals to acquire a private health care plan or make changes to their existing plan on the exchange. It is essential to note that modifications to insurance coverage can only occur during open enrollment, unless prompted by a “qualifying life event” such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the loss of other coverage.
Maryland Health Connection, the state’s insurance marketplace under the Affordable Care Act, offers various private health plans with different levels of coverage. Additionally, the marketplace provides tax credits and subsidies to help lower monthly insurance costs based on an applicant’s financial situation, age, and other factors.
Exciting Opportunities for DACA Recipients
Eberle expressed particular excitement for this year’s open enrollment period as thousands of immigrants in Maryland, including DACA recipients, now have the opportunity to participate in the marketplace for the first time. A recent federal decision has opened marketplaces to DACA recipients, allowing them to purchase insurance through state exchanges.
Despite the potential challenges posed by the incoming Trump administration, Eberle remains hopeful that more DACA recipients and eligible immigrants will enroll in health insurance this year. The exchange is actively engaging in outreach efforts to encourage enrollment and provide support to those navigating the enrollment process.
As the open enrollment period progresses, Eberle encourages individuals considering changing health insurance or enrolling for the first time to explore different plans on the Health Connection website. With numerous language options available and assistance through the website chat box or helpline, applicants can efficiently navigate the enrollment process with the necessary information at hand.
In conclusion, the growth in enrollment numbers and expanded access to the marketplace highlight the importance of ensuring that more Marylanders have access to essential health coverage. With the open enrollment period in full swing, now is the time for individuals to explore their options and secure the necessary insurance coverage for the upcoming year.
