The State Corporation Commission awarded a grant to the Virginia Poverty Law Center (VPLC) to continue supporting its navigators who help consumers shop for and enroll in health insurance coverage through HealthCare.gov. VPLC in 2003 created Enroll Virginia, a nonpartisan, community-based effort to educate all Virginians about the health insurance marketplace and provide free, unbiased assistance to consumers. As such, navigators are not affiliated with or funded by any health insurer.
0pen Enrollment begins Nov. 1 and runs through Dec.15, 2020. Plans sold during Open Enrollment will start on Jan. 1, 2021. Now is the time to shop and compare choices or update your current plan. Individuals who were financially impacted by COVID-19 and experienced a loss of income may qualify for a subsidy on the Marketplace. Also, individuals may qualify for a plan with low monthly premiums, depending on their income.
Consumers whose gross incomes fall between 138 and 400 percent of the federal poverty level can get tax credits to help them lower their monthly insurance payments. Tax credits are based on household size and family income. Generally speaking, the lower the income, the higher the tax credit.
Moreover, each health plan covers ten essential health benefits, including ambulatory patient services, hospitalization, pregnancy, mental health and substance use disorders, preventive, and rehabilitative services. Prescription coverage is included in each plan. Dental and vision are not included in adult plans.
Also, navigators will be available to assist residents throughout the year with any issues that arise. The ACA health Insurance marketplace offers a special enrollment period for individuals who experience life changes, like losing health coverage through an employer, getting married, having a baby, or moving to a new zip code or county. If you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period, you have up to 60 days following the event to enroll in a plan. If you miss this time period, you will have to wait until the next Open Enrollment Period to apply.
Navigators also assist consumers throughout the year to provide information about other coverage options, such as the State Medicaid Program and FAMIS for children. Consumers between the ages of 19 and 64 and whose incomes fall below the 138 percent federal poverty level, they may be eligible for Medicaid.
Consumers can reach Lois Caliri, a certified healthcare navigator, at 540-613-1696 or lois@enroll-virginia.com.
