Health Insurance Marketplace Deadline for Enrollment is Dec. 15

November 29, 2022

Paris, TN – November 1 marked the first day of the open enrollment period for Tennesseans looking to enroll in or change their plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace for coverage in 2023.  With limited time left, it is time for those who need to enroll or renew their plans to do so as soon as possible. The Marketplace Open Enrollment Period on HealthCare.gov runs from November 1, 2022, to December 15, 2022, with coverage beginning by January 1.

West Tennesseans exploring affordable health insurance options can receive free assistance by making an appointment with a Certified Application Counselor at Paris and Henry County Healthcare Foundation/Henry County Medical Center.

Marketplace plans must include key benefits like mental health care, maternity care, prescription drug coverage, and hospitalization services.  Many marketplace shoppers will qualify for a discount based on their income.

After open enrollment closes on December 15, accessing health insurance in the Marketplace is limited until the next open enrollment period or to those who experience a qualifying life event like job loss, change in household compositions, etc.

Tips to Know about Health Insurance Marketplace:

  1.  Key Dates! The Marketplace Open Enrollment at HealthCare.gov runs from November 1, 2022 to January 15, 2023. Consumers who enroll by midnight on December 15 can get full year coverage that starts January 1.
  2. Coverage is Affordable! This year, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, more people qualify for help purchasing quality health coverage. If you have looked for health coverage before, it is worth a second look:  4 out of 5 customers will be able to find a plan for $10/month or less after subsidies. With the new law, millions of people will continue to qualify for tax credits that lower their premiums
  3. Quality Plans! These are quality, comprehensive health plans that offer doctor visits, emergency care, behavioral health care, preventive care, hospital care, and prescription drugs.  There are also new plan options that offer similar benefit designs and more pre-deductible services.
  4. More Help is Available! Consumers can access assisters and navigators in every state on the Marketplace. To find local help go to https://localhelp.healthcare.gov.
  5. Sign Up for Coverage This Year! All consumers shopping for health insurance coverage even those who currently have coverage through the Marketplace — should enroll or re-enroll by logging in to HealthCare.gov and CuidadodeSalud.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 (TTY is 855-889-4325) to fill out an application and enroll in a 2023 Marketplace plan. Help is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week, it is free and assistance is available in over 200+ languages.

5 Ways to Make the Most of Your Health Coverage

Here are five ways to make the most of your health coverage:

  1. Confirm your coverage: Be sure your enrollment is complete. Contact your health plan and/or state Medicaid office. Pay your premium if you have one, so you can use your health coverage when you need it.
  2. Know where to go for answers: Contact your health plan to see what services are covered, and what your costs will be. Read the Roadmap to Better Care and a Healthier You from cms.gov to learn about key health insurance terms, like coinsurance and deductible.
  3. Find a provider: Select a health care provider in your network who will work with you to get your recommended health screenings. Remember you might pay more if you see a provider who is out-of-network.
  4. Make an appointment: Confirm your provider accepts your coverage. Talk to your provider about preventive services. Ask questions about your concerns and what you can do to stay healthy.
  5. Fill your prescriptions: Some drugs cost more than others. Ask in advance how much your prescription costs and if there is a more affordable option.

If you have questions or would like to make an appointment, contact Tina Umstead, LPN, Community Health Specialist at (731) 644-8215.  Regular office hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For more information, go online at www.hcmc-tn.org.

Located in Paris, TN, Henry County Medical Center is a progressive, integrated healthcare organization committed to serving the healthcare needs of Henry County and the adjoining region.  Including a 142-bed hospital and other facilities, the medical center provides a variety of outpatient services, as well as inpatient care. Henry County Medical Center is a county-owned and operated nonprofit institution. For more information: www.hcmc-tn.org