Brownwood Regional Medical Center offers help to the public in navigating the Health Insurance Marketplace to find an insurance policy to avoid paying penalties according to the Affordable Care Act. Open enrollment for health coverage is November 1, 2015 through January 31, 2016.

As part of the Affordable Care Act, most U.S. citizens were required to have health insurance beginning in 2014. Since the passage of the ACA five years ago, about 16.4 million uninsured people have gained health coverage. Yet, approximately 30 million Americans remain uninsured.

BRMC invites the public to make an appointment for enrollment or re-enrollment for the Health Insurance Marketplace or Medicaid by calling (325) 649-3331. Beginning November 1, BRMC will again help area residents learn about and enroll in health insurance options on the Health Insurance Marketplace.

“As a primary health provider in Brown County and the surrounding area, our goal is to help educate residents in an easy-to-understand way, as well as assist those who haven’t  yet signed up for health insurance or Medicaid, if qualified,” said Chip Camp, CEO of BRMC.  “During the next few months, we’ll be out in the community and meeting one-on-one to help individuals find affordable coverage.”

The Health Insurance Marketplace was set up to provide U.S. citizens access to affordable health insurance coverage. Depending on household income, some individuals may qualify for government financial assistance– or subsidies – towards the cost of the premium and other financial obligations like co-pays or deductibles.

All health plans on the Marketplace offer a comprehensive set of benefits, and coverage will not be denied for individuals with a pre-existing health condition. Some of the health benefits include free preventive care and wellness services, doctor visits, prescription drugs, hospital and emergency department care, lab services, pediatric services – and more.

The penalty fee for not having insurance has increased this year. If you can afford health insurance coverage in 2016, but don’t sign up, you may have to pay a penalty ($695 per adult, $347.50 per child – up to $2,085/family or 2.5% of family income, whichever is higher). You will have to pay the fee on the federal income tax return you file. And, without insurance, you will be financially responsible for all of your medical costs.

“This is where Brownwood Regional Medical Center can assist,” said Camp.  “With many people not having access to a computer or having difficulty maneuvering on the government website, our application counselors will help individuals and their families evaluate the health plan options and determine if they are eligible for Medicaid or other financial assistance. We’ll also help with re-enrollment.”

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources.

“While Texas has not expanded Medicaid, government subsidies to help citizens obtain coverage are available, depending on income and other qualifications,” explained Camp. “We can help screen these individuals and if they qualify, we can enroll them at any time, with health coverage beginning immediately.”

“Brownwood Regional Medical Center is committed to improving the health of the communities we serve by helping residents gain access to healthcare services,” said Camp.