Open Enrollment for 2017 Healthcare Plans is Happening Now
When selecting the right health plan for you and your family there are lots of different factors to consider. One thing to always keep in mind is there is a reason plans and premiums are different. It is not always the most obvious items, such as deductibles or copays. Sometimes it can be even more complicated issues, such as the network of providers or if you qualify for a subsidy.
If you do qualify for a subsidy, do you also qualify for a CSR? Cost Share Reduction lowers the amount a customer has to pay for out-of-pocket deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments.
Are you a member of a federally recognized tribe? Does the plan you have decided on cover dental? Would a separate Stand-Alone qualified Dental plan be a better choice? And more ... Sounds confusing, doesn't it?
And now that several carriers have decided to no longer offer health insurance through the Marketplace for 2017 coverage, there is even more confusion!
IMPORTANT DATES
Here are the important dates to remember if you are enrolling for the first time or you plan to re-enroll or change your health insurance plan:
- November 1, 2016: Open Enrollment starts. This is the first day you can enroll, re-enroll, or change a 2017 insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Coverage can start as soon as January 1, 2017.
- December 15, 2016: Last day to enroll in or change plans for coverage to start January 1, 2017.
- January 1, 2017: 2017 coverage starts for those who enroll or change plans by December 15.
- January 31, 2017: Last day to enroll in or change a 2017 health plan. After this date, you can enroll or change plans only if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period
"There is no additional cost to have a local, licensed and trained agent help you," says Robin Gump, licensed agent and owner of Mid Florida Agencies. "There is no reason to wade through pages and pages of websites to find the information you need. It is the agent's job to understand the plans and procedures and to explain and help you choose the best option for your needs."
About Mid Florida Agencies
Mid Florida Agencies is a local agency for Florida Blue, your BlueCross and BlueShield plans. MFA is an independent agency with locally licensed and trained agents who assist with "ObamaCare" marketplace plans on and off market, with and without subsidies.
Mid Florida's Apopka office is located in the Victoria Plaza at 1077 West Orange Blossom Trail in Apopka.
