To the editor:
As an outreach and enrollment specialist for the Health Insurance Marketplace, I’ve seen firsthand what the Affordable Care Act means for Aroostook County’s uninsured. Every day, I hear from those who now have peace of mind because they know they can afford to get the care they need.
The plans truly are affordable for millions of uninsured Americans. Nationwide, 85 percent of Marketplace enrollees qualified for financial assistance to lower their premiums. Most Americans are enrolled in plans for $75 or less, and are seeing their out-of-pocket costs drop, and you may as well. Additionally, the plans cover the care you need, from doctor and hospital visits to prescriptions and free preventive care.
That’s why we are working hard to reach out to anyone who is not insured and could be with rates that work for you and your family. We want to let consumers know about their coverage options. We want to be sure our members in our local communities know about the free enrollment events with experts that can help you understand your coverage options and enroll in a plan that fits your needs and your budget. Furthermore, these events offer you one-to-one assistance, privacy and confidentiality — three important requirements when you are making choices about your health and your family members’ health.
It is also worth mentioning that the penalty in 2016 for not having insurance has increased to a minimum of $695 per adult or 2.5 percent of your household income, whichever is greater.
If you’re uninsured, underinsured, or just want to learn about your options, come to one of these free enrollment events.
CARIBOU: Thursday, Dec. 8 at Cary Medical Center from 5-7 p.m.
PRESQUE ISLE: Wednesday, Dec. 14 at ACAP Building, 771 Main Street, from 5-7 p.m.
FORT FAIRFIELD: Tuesday, Jan. 10, 2017 at Fort Fairfield Housing Authority, Meadows Resident Building, 17 Harmony Lane from 5-7 p.m.
FORT KENT: Saturday, Jan. 21, 2017 at ACAP Building, 40 Alfalfa Ave., from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
If these dates don’t work with your schedule, call me at 498-1684 for a one-on-one appointment. However, you need to act now because the enrollment period for 2016 coverage ends January 31, 2017.
Protect yourself and your family with quality, affordable health coverage. Get covered and have peace of mind in the New Year!
Patti Dorman,
outreach and enrollment specialist
Health Insurance Marketplace
