Thursday | November 1, 2018 | Sitka Public Library
This year’s open enrollment period for obtaining health insurance through the Affordable Care Act Health Insurance Marketplace is only six weeks; beginning November 1, 2018, and ending December 15, 2018.
To help community members navigate the process, SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) Patient Health Benefits Manager, Andrea Thomas is offering a presentation on Thursday, November 1, from 6:00-7:00 p.m. at the Sitka Public Library. Ms. Thomas will discuss and answer questions about applying for insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace website, new changes in this year’s Premera Blue Cross plans, common challenges, and how to enroll. She will also discuss Medicaid eligibility and how to apply. Health Care Sharing Ministries (HCSMs) are another option for Sitka residents, and community members will share their experience getting coverage through an HCSM during the presentation.
“This year people have six weeks to renew or apply for coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace for a January 1st start,” said Andrea Thomas, Patient Health Benefits Manager. “One positive coverage change is the addition of basic adult dental care and the price has gone down. A disappointment is that only healthcare in Alaska and Washington will be considered in-network for coverage. Care in any other state will be more expensive. I encourage people to come to the presentation to learn more about their options.”
SEARHC is a Certified Application Counselor agency offering free support to all Southeast residents. Call 966-8883 or 966-8662 for more information.