ACA Marketplace opens Nov. 1
Enrollment period runs through Dec. 15, 2017
The fifth open enrollment period into the Health Insurance Marketplace begins Nov. 1 and runs through Dec. 15, 2017. Through the Marketplace, individuals are able to go to one place to search for health coverage options and choose from the health plans available in their area.
The best source for information about the Marketplace is the website www.healthcare.gov. The website is available 24/7 and provides information on how the Marketplace works, what the benefits are and key deadlines. Individuals can also call 1.800.318.2596 to speak with trained customer service representatives 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
For individuals needing further assistance, Parkland Health & Hospital System will have certified application counselors available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday in Parkland’s Business Office to answer questions about the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and provide help enrolling in the Marketplace. The Business Office is located on the first floor of the old Parkland OPC, 5201 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, 75235.
In collaboration with the Community Council of Greater Dallas, there will be certified health insurance navigators during the enrollment period at the following Parkland Community Oriented Primary Care health centers to provide enrollment assistance:
• Irving Health Center, 1800 N. Britain Road, Irving, TX75061 - Tuesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Garland Health Center, 802 Hopkins, Garland, TX 75040 - Tuesday and Thursday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
• Hatcher Station Health Center, 4600 Scyene Road, Dallas, TX 75210 - Tuesdays (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
• Southeast Dallas Health Center, 9202 Elam Road, Dallas, TX - Thursdays (8 a.m. – 4 p.m.)
Most people must have qualifying health coverage or pay a fee for the months they don’t have insurance. Health coverage exemptions are available based on a number of circumstances, including certain hardships, some life events, health coverage or financial status and membership in some groups. Additional information on exemptions is available at www.healthcare.gov.
In addition, a special enrollment period (SEP) outside of the yearly open enrollment exists for those with certain life events including losing health coverage, moving, getting married, having a baby or adopting child. If an individual qualifies for an SEP, they usually have up to 60 days following the event to enroll in a plan. If they miss that window, they have to wait until the next open enrollment period to apply.
Those who may need assistance can contact Parkland’s Customer Service department at 214-590-4900. For more information about Parkland’s services, visit www.parklandhospital.com.
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