Navigators provide free help obtaining health insurance
North Florida School Days
By Lauren Vagelakos
Though Open Enrollment for the Health Insurance Marketplace ended on January 2016, consumers can still get help getting insurance through Special Enrollment Periods or through Florida KidCare. Navigators in North Central Florida are available year round to help consumers explore insurance options and enroll in a plan that meets their needs and budget.
What is a Special Enrollment Period (SEP)?
SEPs allow individuals and families to enroll in a health plan on Healthcare.gov outside of Open Enrollment. Types of SEPs can vary, and can be triggered by life-changing evets. Common SEPs include getting married, getting divorced, moving to a new state or city or having a baby. SEPs can also be due to losing health coverage, such as through losing a job or aging out of your parent’s insurance plan (turning age 26). If you have questions about different SEPs or think you may qualify, you can contact a Navigator for free help and to get your questions answered.
Florida KidCare Enrollment
Even though Open Enrollment is over, Florida KidCare and Medicaid enrollment take place year-round. Health plans are available at very low costs through KidCare, and all plans cover a wide range of health services that children need. If you have a child in your household who does not have health insurance, be sure to get connected to KidCare to enroll them in a low-cost plan to ensure they are covered. Contact a Navigator for free help enrolling your children in KidCare.
I have health coverage, now what?
Since the Affordable Care Act became law, a lot of individuals are now enrolled in health coverage for the first time. Getting the most out of your health coverage can be tricky – especially if you don’t know where to start. For assistance using your insurance coverage, the Health Insurance Marketplace Navigators are here to help. If you have questions about your health plan, are confused about what different health insurance terms mean, or need help navigating the healthcare system, Navigators can provide one-on-one assistance to answer questions for you and help you get the most out of your plan. Navigators can also help you with finding doctors in your network and help you set up appointments and systems for paying bills. For more information and to contact a Navigator in your area, visit navigators.org or call 352-299-0380.
WellFlorida Council, the local health council and consultant for health causes for the region, oversees the health Insurance Marketplace Navigator program for 15 counties in North Central Florida.
