Keeping Up with the Affordable Care Act, Insurer Defections, Changing Regulations

The open enrollment period to obtain health insurance under the Affordable Care Act starts November 1, 2016 and extends through January 31, 2017. Every American is required to obtain health insurance, either through their employer or through a state or federal health insurance marketplace, or face a penalty. Yet, there are a number of changes to the ACA landscape that may impact both individuals and employers as they plan for 2017.

· Will consumers have fewer choices now that several large insurers have announced they are dropping out of the marketplace?

· What can consumers expect to pay, as premiums, co-pays and deductibles are all expected to increase?

· How does the federal subsidy work and who qualifies?

· What penalties might consumers pay if they fail to obtain coverage?

· What conditions must exist for an individual to be exempt from the ACA coverage requirements?

As an official Navigator for the Health Insurance Marketplace, the Mid-East Area Agency on Aging (MEAAA) can provide answers to these and many other questions surrounding the Affordable Care Act.

For answers for these questions and more, call 636-207-0847.