Only 10 Days Left to Enroll in Health Coverage for 2019

(Austin) – As the enrollment deadline approaches- only 10 days left- Central Health and its partners are reminding Travis County residents to take advantage of free services to help them select a health insurance plan for 2019.

 Thousands of Travis County residents have already enrolled in a qualified health plan offered on the Affordable Care Act’s (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace through Central Health partner, Foundation Communities.

 “Our team of 200-plus local experts has helped more than 3,000 people enroll in health insurance since November 1,” Foundation Communities Director of Financial Programs Kori Hattemer said. “We’re extending our hours on December 14 and 15 to make sure we can help everyone enroll before the deadline.” Enrollment ends at midnight, December 15. 

 Central Health, Central Health-supported CommUnityCare Health Centers, Foundation Communities, and United Way 2-1-1 have teamed up to provide free enrollment assistance and transportation to anyone seeking health coverage. 

 “Whether someone is applying for the first time or renewing coverage for 2019, for most people, this is the only time during the year to enroll in a health plan,” Central Health President & CEO Mike Geeslin said. “Health insurance provides individuals who are healthy or living with a chronic disease peace of mind, the essential health services they need, and financial protection from unexpected health costs.”

 Every health plan available in the Marketplace is comprehensive and includes 10 essential benefits ranging from preventative and wellness services to hospitalization, and no one can be denied due to having a pre-existing condition. Sendero Health Plans, Central Health’s nonprofit Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), is again offering their IdealCare product through the Marketplace for 2019.

 Travis County residents can schedule a free enrollment appointment and a free Lyft ride to and from the appointment by calling 2-1-1 from 7:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Friday until Dec. 15.

 Only Travis County residents are eligible for free Lyft rides. Bilingual enrollment specialists are available to assist Spanish-speaking residents.

 Enrollment appointments are available at:

• Foundation Communities North, 5900 Airport Blvd.
• Foundation Communities South, 2600 W. Stassney Lane
• Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center, 2901 Montopolis Drive
• CommUnityCare Sandra Joy Anderson Community Health & Wellness Center, 1705 E. 11th St.
• CommUnityCare North Central Health Center, 1210 W. Braker Lane
• CommUnityCare South Austin Health Center, 2529 S. First St.
• Latino Healthcare Forum, 6601 Felix Ave. 

For more information, visit www.CentralHealth.net/enroll-atx.