Between juggling all of life’s stress — work, family, bills — it’s easy to understand why some people might delay selecting a health plan. The truth is, picking health care coverage has never been easier or more important. And for thousands of people in our community, it’s never been more affordable.
Open Enrollment for a 2024 Marketplace health plan runs from November 1 to January 15. To try and simplify this year’s shopping process, the federal government is reducing the number of plans offered on the Health Insurance Marketplace. So, some people may need to select a different plan for next year.
“You may have new choices for health coverage or may need to update your application to get the right savings,” says Nick Tant, Florida Blue vice president of local commercial markets with Florida Blue, Florida’s Blue Cross and Blue Shield health plan. “Everyone should take the time each year to revisit their care needs, budget, and health goals, and now is the time to do that.” To secure a health insurance plan that starts on January 1, 2024, you’ll have to enroll by December 15. After December 15, your plan will start on February 1, 2024.
One thing that’s not changing is that financial assistance (also called a subsidy) is still available.
In fact, 94% of those who enrolled in a Marketplace plan in Florida this year received financial assistance. So, even if you have the same job and income as last year, you’ll want to check your eligibility. More than a third of Floridians got a plan for $10 a month or less this year after receiving their subsidy.2
Florida Blue, the state’s leading health insurer, has a team of trusted agents in the community to walk you through the options that best meet your personal needs and budget. They can tell you if you qualify for a subsidy and explore other ways to save you money. “We understand that health insurance can seem confusing or intimidating, and that’s why we have licensed experts who make it easier and less stressful,” says Tant. “They’ll review your health care needs so you can pick the best plan for you.” Many agents are bilingual, so you’ll find someone easy to talk to, especially since Florida Blue agents can assist shoppers in 20 different languages. In person, through a virtual visit, or by phone, you can also get assistance from your neighborhood Florida Blue Center. At more than 30 locations across Florida, local Florida Blue teams will take the time to answer all of your questions and make sure your health plan includes the doctors and hospitals you know and trust.
A recent Gallup survey shows that 4 out of 10 Americans put off health care last year, worried about the cost. 3 None of us plans to get sick or hurt. Waiting until the last minute, or until it’s too late, is not the answer — and can even worsen things. Tant says, “Health insurance is the peace of mind you need and deserve for whatever happens at any stage in life.”
So, don’t delay! Get a jump start on your 2024 health and wellness journey and speak to someone about how you can enroll in a plan today. Florida Blue, your health solutions partner, makes it easier to get the help you need to pick the best plan for you. Just call Florida Blue at 877-344-1458 or go to FloridaBlue.com/YourSolution to start shopping.
For additional information about Florida Blue, please visit www.floridablue.com or call (877) 352-5830.
