Fact #1
Open Enrollment for 2015 individual health insurance plans begins November 15, 2014.
Fact #2:
You may apply for coverage outside the dates of Open Enrollment if you have a qualifying event.
Fact #3:
All individual and small group health insurance plans effective on or after January 1, 2014 must include coverage for 10 essential health benefits — things like preventive care, well visits to the doctor, hospitalization, etc. Click here for the full list.
Fact #4:
Health insurance plans, even those purchased through the federal or state exchanges (marketplace plans), are run by private health insurance carriers.
Fact #5:
If you need help paying for your coverage, you may be eligible for a premium subsidy, depending on your income. To collect a subsidy you must purchase your plan through your state’s exchange. Virginia residents use the federal health insurance exchange, healthcare.gov. Maryland and DC have their own exchanges.
Fact #6:
Starting on January 1, 2014, you cannot be denied health insurance coverage because of a pre-existing medical condition. This is known as guaranteed issue.
Fact #7:
Starting on January 1, 2014, you cannot be charged a higher premium because of your gender; men and women pay the same premiums.
Fact #8:
If you purchased a marketplace plan and are collecting a subsidy for your coverage, you must report any changes in income or family status that might have an impact on your eligibility for the subsidy. Click here to learn more.
Fact #9:
Although your insurance carrier will offer automatic re-enrollment in your current plan (or one similar to it) when your coverage expires, you should carefully review your options before selecting a new plan. You can compare your options — including premiums, deductibles, out-of-pocket costs, etc.– using our convenient Instant Quote feature:
Virginia Medical Plans is a one-stop shop for your health insurance!
Call us at 1-800-867-0800 or email us at jkatz@vamedicalplans.com for assistance in finding the right coverage for you.
