Open enrollment begins for Health Insurance Marketplace

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — With the coronavirus pandemic causing many to lose their employer health insurance, this may be the most important year for the Health Insurance Marketplace to date.

Open enrollment for the Marketplace officially began Nov. 1 and ends December 15. Any plans selected during open enrollment begin Jan. 1.

The Affordable Care Act is still in place, but the individual mandate was eradicated from the Affordable Care Act in 2017. This means Americans will not be penalized for not having health coverage. However, the Health Insurance Marketplace remains open, and offers tax credits to significantly reduce the monthly cost of insurance for most who apply.

Those who apply for coverage on Healthcare.gov will also be screened for affordable and no-cost state coverage like AHCCCS (Arizona’s Medicaid program) and KidsCare (Arizona’s Children’s Health Insurance Program). Enrollment for those two programs is open year-round.

North Country HealthCare is here to help

North Country HealthCare has certified application counselors on staff to assist consumers in reviewing their options and enrolling in affordable insurance. For those who are already enrolled in Marketplace insurance, North Country HealthCare’s application counselors can help renew coverage for 2021.

Enrollment appointments are free and available in-person or over the phone. Appointments are also available in both English and Spanish. North Country HealthCare is located in 12 communities across northern Arizona. Certified application counselors can also assist with AHCCCS, KidsCare and SNAP (formerly known as Food Stamps) applications. More information or to schedule your free enrollment appointment, visit northcountryhealthcare.org.