Navigators help residents get health insurance as December deadline approaches
WellFlorida News Release
GAINESVILLE, Fla. (Dec. 1, 2014)—Health Insurance Marketplace Navigators will be available to help individuals, families and businesses throughout the region obtain affordable health insurance for the second Open Enrollment period. Open enrollment runs until Feb.15, but in order to have insurance in January, consumers need to enroll by Dec. 15.
Navigators are professionals certified to provide free and unbiased information and assistance on insurance available through the Health Insurance Marketplace created by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Navigators can answer questions about new coverage options and help consumers enroll in a plan that meets their needs and budget.
The Open Enrollment period ends Feb. 15. After that, those wishing to enroll can only do so if they experience a life-changing event, such as having a baby or moving to a new state. Most individuals are required to have health insurance or pay a penalty, which in 2015 will be 2% of household income or $325 per adult and $162.50 per child.
WellFlorida Council oversees the Health Insurance Marketplace Navigator program in North Central Florida and has partnered with organizations throughout 15 counties to provide Navigator services. Contact a Navigator in your county at one of the phone numbers below or visit www.NCFNavigators.org for a calendar of Navigator events.
Navigators by County
Alachua: Suwannee River AHEC, 386-292-2947 (Gainesville and Spanish Speakers),352-317-7251 (Non-Gainesville)
Bradford and Union: Suwannee River AHEC, 904-796-7096
Citrus: HPH Hospice, 352-464-0715
Columbia: Lake Shore Hospital Authority, 386-984-7637
Dixie, Levy and Gilchrist: Palms Medical Group, 352-441-0769
Hamilton, Lafayette and Suwannee: Suwannee River AHEC, 386-249-5260
Hernando: Crescent Community Clinic, 352-584-0119
Marion and Sumter: Heart of Florida Health Center, 352-359-2519
Putnam: Azalea Health, 352-316-1353
