BALTIMORE – November 1st marks the launch of the sixth Open Enrollment period for Marylanders to sign up for insurance through the federal Affordable Care Act. HealthCare Access Maryland, a nonprofit organization, will play a key role in enrolling consumers in qualified health insurance plans in Baltimore City, and Baltimore, Anne Arundel, Carroll, Frederick and Howard Counties.
During the Open Enrollment period, consumers can sign up for qualified health and dental plans.
“This year, health insurance rates have dropped an average of 13 percent,” said Michele Eberle, executive director of Maryland Health Benefit Exchange (MHBE). “I encourage everyone to explore their health insurance options at MarylandHealthConnection.gov or with the help of local experts from HealthCare Access Maryland. There are new plans and prices this year, so it’s worth checking out your options.”
The Open Enrollment period ends December 15, 2018, with policies effective January 1, 2019.
“Health insurance is more affordable to Marylanders this year, and we’re excited to be helping people throughout the region find a plan that is right for them,” said Traci Kodeck, president and CEO of HealthCare Access Maryland. “Our team will provide hands-on help to make sure consumers understand their options and enroll before the December 15th deadline.”
Because of recent changes in plans, premiums, and subsidies – particularly decreased premiums – HealthCare Access Maryland urges all consumers to shop for a 2019 plan, rather than accepting the automatic re-enrollment.
Marylanders who meet income and other eligibility factors can also enroll in the state’s Medicaid insurance program. People who qualify for Medicaid should note that they can apply any time of year and will receive a notice when it’s time to renew.
HealthCare Access Maryland has navigators who can assist consumers for free in locations throughout the region. Consumers can find all locations and hours at www.hcamaryland.org, or by calling 410-500-4710 or 855-288-3667. Spanish-language assistance is available.
Consumers can also get one-on-one enrollment help at events in the region, including:
- November 6, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. – Loch Raven Library, 1046 Taylor Ave., Towson, Md.
- November 10, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Southeast Anchor Branch (Highlandtown) Library, 3601 Eastern Ave., Baltimore, Md.
- November 10, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Carroll Community College, 1601 Washington Road, Room M-157, Westminster, Md.
- November 11, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. – Anne Arundel Community College, Arnold Campus, CADE Room 219, W. Campus Drive, Arnold, Md.
- December 8, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – 1 North Charles St., Mezzanine Level, Baltimore, Md.
- December 8, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. – Howard County Health Department, 8930 Stanford Blvd, Columbia, Md.
- December 9, 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. – Anne Arundel Community College, Arnold Campus, CADE Room 219, W. Campus Drive, Arnold, Md.
Consumers can also go onto the state’s online exchange to learn about and sign up for insurance: Maryland Health Connection (https://www.marylandhealthconnection.gov/).
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