What is Health Care Reform?
How has health care reform changed things?
The Affordable Care Act, also known as the health care reform law, was passed in 2010 by the government to give more people access to health insurance to get the care they need.
Most people are required to have health insurance as part of the Affordable Care Act’s individual mandate. You can purchase a health plan during the annual Open Enrollment Period established by the law. You may be eligible to purchase health insurance outside of the Open Enrollment Period if you have a qualifying event, such as having a baby, getting married, or moving to a new county. Additionally, a subsidy is available to help pay some of the cost of a health plan for those who qualify.
We can help you compare, buy and enroll in a plan that fits your budget and your needs. The Open Enrollment Period for 2016 coverage has passed. If you have had a life event, like those described above, it may qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period. Please call us to discuss your options for 2016 coverage.
You can buy a Florida Blue health plan for 2017 coverage on these dates:
- October 1, 2016 – You can enroll in a plan directly through Florida Blue.
- November 1, 2016 – If you qualify for a premium tax credit, also called a ‘subsidy’, you can enroll in a Florida Blue subsidy-eligible plan starting November 1, 2016.
What is health insurance?
Health insurance pays part of the cost of medical care when you need it. You pay a premium every month, and you have peace of mind knowing that if you need unexpected medical care, you won’t be responsible for paying the whole cost of the bill. You may have to pay a deductible first. After the deductible is met, health insurance pays for most of the cost for medical care, such as doctor or hospital visits, prescription drugs, tests, maternity care, and other health services you may
Most health plans also have wellness (or preventive) services to help keep you healthy at no additional cost. These include visits such as annual checkups, mammograms, and vaccines.
Likely Costs for Essential Health Benefits
Are there different kinds of plans to choose from?
You have the choice between four “metal” categories of health plans – bronze, silver, gold, and platinum. The levels show the percentage of your medical bill that the health plan pays on average.
We offer plans that are approved by the Federal Government that include comprehensive coverage and health care support for every stage of your life. We are here to help you choose a plan that is right for your lifestyle and situation. We can walk you through buying a Florida Blue plan on the Marketplace and qualifying for financial assistance or help you buy a plan directly through Florida Blue.
All plans offer the same essential health benefits, but the out-of-pocket cost and monthly premium amount differs with each plan.
What doctors can I see?
Your plan offers a network of local doctors in the community and throughout Florida. Certain plans allow you to see doctors offered by Blue plans in other states, as well. It is important to enroll in a health plan that includes your doctor(s), or you will pay more to see doctors that are not in the network. To find whether a plan includes your doctor, use our searchable provider directory, or talk to a Florida Blue agent.