Health care costs are a major financial concern among U.S. families, especially those without health insurance, according to a recent Kaiser Family Foundation poll. That’s why the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services is working to ensure every Michigander who needs health insurance has the information they need to cover themselves and their families — but they must act soon, because the deadline for open enrollment is January 16. .
High-quality, affordable health insurance is important both financially and because people with health insurance have access to preventive services as well as treatment for illness or injury. Having health insurance leads to better health. Fortunately, all Michigan residents can evaluate their health insurance options and purchase a new plan during the current open enrollment period in the health insurance marketplace at HealthCare.gov. This is an important opportunity for any Michigander who needs health insurance, including those who were recently found to no longer qualify for Medicaid coverage.
We often hear that people worry that they won’t be able to afford the health insurance they need or that it’s too complicated to sign up for. Fortunately, savings are available that can help make health insurance affordable for many Michiganders. For 2023, more than 85% of Marketplace enrollees are eligible for a subsidy, with many able to get health insurance for less than $10 a month. In addition to these savings, free enrollment assistance from local providers is available at HealthCare.gov/LocalHelp. These trained professionals can help you through the application process, finding a plan that works for your doctors and covers the medical treatments or medications you or your family need.
It’s also important to know that there’s no wrong way to start — if you or a loved one qualifies for another program, such as Medicaid or Medicare, HealthCare.gov will direct you to the appropriate program. If you choose to purchase your own plan, you can choose from 169 different health plans, all of which must provide some comprehensive health benefit under the Affordable Care Act. These benefits include things like office visits, prescription medications, preventive care, maternity care, and mental health treatments.
If you need health insurance, it is important that you take action before January 16 to get the coverage you need to protect yourself and your family. If you miss the deadline, you may not have another chance to sign up for health insurance in 2024.
Working together we can achieve the goal of promoting a healthier state, all while growing our economy, creating jobs, and lowering costs for Michigan families. Resources to help you obtain coverage are available at Michigan.gov/HealthInsurance or by calling the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services Call Center at 877-999-6442 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Anita Fox is director of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services. Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters.