Dec. 8, 2017 -- The N.C. Department of Health and Human Services wants all North Carolinians to be as healthy as possible, and having health insurance is a big part of that. If you don’t have health coverage, the Department encourages you to enroll for 2018 through the Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov by next week’s deadline of Friday, Dec. 15.
The Health Insurance Marketplace serves people who don’t get health coverage from their job, and offers financial assistance for families with incomes from 100 percent to 400 percent of the Federal Poverty Level.
By visiting HealthCare.gov, you can compare plans based on price, benefits and other features. Importantly, coverage cannot be denied because of pre-existing or chronic conditions like cancer or diabetes.
Though DHHS is not involved in the Marketplace, the Department serves hundreds of thousands of people who may not be able to access health insurance otherwise. As such, the Department is also encouraging all partner organizations to inform all uninsured people they serve that Open Enrollment ends Dec. 15.
How do you enroll?
Apply online at HealthCare.gov or by calling 1-800-318-2596. (TTY users can call 1-855-889-4325.) And if you had coverage for 2017 through the Marketplace, it is strongly recommended that participants log in to their Marketplace account as soon as possible to review their options for 2018.
North Carolinians seeking in-person assistance with enrollment can visit the NC Navigator Consortium to find a local application assister or call the toll-free NC Navigator Helpline at 1-855-733-3711.
Can I get financial help?
Yes. Most people who sign up for coverage get help paying for their premiums, and may also be able to get help with copays and deductibles. Most people who buy coverage on the Marketplace pay less than $75 per month.
“Having affordable health insurance coverage is an essential part of being healthy,” said Secretary of Health and Human Services Dr. Mandy Cohen. “I hope that all North Carolinians without coverage consider taking this important step today.”