(Austin) – Central Health, Central Health-funded CommUnityCare Health Centers, Foundation Communities, and United Way 2-1-1 are teaming up to remind Travis County residents to sign up for health coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace. The open enrollment period for health insurance coverage for 2021 officially opened on Nov. 1 and ends Dec. 15.
“Everyone deserves access to high-quality health care so they can get well and stay healthy,” Central Health President & CEO Mike Geeslin said. “Central Health wants Travis County residents to know the current election and political events do not affect coverage options available through the ACA Marketplace for 2021. You can secure coverage for the next year, no matter what happens in Washington.”
Texas has the highest rate of people living without health insurance in the U.S., according to the U.S. Census Bureau. In Travis County, the Bureau reports 14.8% of the population – or 188,550 people – are uninsured. This year, Families USA revealed an estimated 659,000 Texans have lost their healthcare coverage due to the pandemic.
More than 8 million Americans signed up for ACA coverage in 2020. In Texas, there were just over a million people who enrolled, making it the first enrollment increase the state had seen in four years, according to the Health Insurance Organization.
“We are encouraging anyone who is lacking health insurance, especially those whose health insurance status may be affected with the pandemic, to call and find a health insurance coverage solution that works best for them and their families. We’re recommending people schedule an appointment now so there is plenty of time to go over details and options for coverage before the Dec. 15 deadline,” Aaron DeLaO, director of health initiatives with Foundation Communities said. “Going into the holiday season with health insurance secured for the next year can provide added peace of mind during a time of uncertainty.”
Anyone with questions about the ACA and eligibility can call 2-1-1, or call Foundation Communities directly at 512-381-4520 to schedule an appointment for free assistance with a Foundation Communities enrollment expert over the phone or virtually.
Health plans offered on the Marketplace must cover the same set of 10 essential health benefits, ranging from outpatient care to hospitalization to prescription drugs. Additionally, Marketplace plans cover treatment for pre-existing medical conditions and can’t terminate coverage due to a change in health status, including diagnosis or treatment of COVID-19.
Foundation Communities is currently accepting appointment requests. For more information on ACA enrollment and to schedule an appointment, visit Foundation Communities, or call (512) 381-4520.
