For those seeking health insurance coverage in the 2018 Marketplace, keep the following tips in mind when selecting or switching health benefits during the open enrollment period

News, Your Health | 7 years ago

Last Minute Tips for 2018 Marketplace Enrollment

For those seeking health insurance coverage in the 2018 Marketplace, keep the following tips in mind when selecting or switching health benefits during the open enrollment period. 
November begins the slide into the holiday season. But before you go all-in on holiday plans, decorations, and early shopping, don’t forget the Marketplace. Yes, November is also the time of year for you to choose your health insurance plan on the Individual Health Insurance Marketplace. With a shorter enrollment period of only six weeks for 2018 health insurance plans, make sure you have make the right information to make the right decision for you and your health in 2018.

Know the Key Dates

If you miss the opportunity to enroll during the Marketplace enrollment period you may not be able to get Marketplace coverage for 2018, unless you have a “qualifying life event”, like losing health coverage, getting married or having a baby. This year you only have a few important days to remember. Make sure to mark these key dates on your calendar so you don’t forget:

  • November 1: Open Enrollment started. This is the first day you could sign up for a 2018 health insurance plan on the Individual Health Insurance Marketplace (Healthcare.gov).
  • December 15: Open Enrollment ends. This is the last day to sign up for a 2018 individual health insurance plan on the Individual Health Insurance Marketplace.
  • January 1: Coverage for 2018 begins.

Review Your Options

Every individual has their own unique health needs. These needs can change from year to year. There is not a one-size-fits-all health care plan. If you’re not sure about things like co-pays and deductibles, contact resources available to you to ensure your plan is right for you.

  • If you’ve had any changes in your health or life, double check your existing coverage to make sure that it’s still right for you.
  • Budgeting for health coverage should include more than just the premium. By understanding things like out-of-pocket costs, you may find better options to meet your needs and budget.
  • If you’re on medication(s) and were covered in 2017, double check your 2018 selection to make sure that your medications are still covered.

Make Sure Your Preferred Doctor is in Network

This is an easy check, but a very important one. You don’t want to assume that your regular doctor is still in network if you choose the same plan from 2017 to 2018. If you have any health conditions that might require a specialist in 2018, it’s also a good idea to research specialists to ensure you have one in network

Go Enroll!

Take these tips and review your options before December 15. Make sure the plan you choose includes your doctors and meets your health needs.

Get more information about finding the right plan for you.