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Chester County Press

Counselors can help with enrolling for health care coverage

01/28/2014 06:44PM ● By Acl

If you’re uninsured, there’s still time to sign up for health insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace and avoid the penalty.

The Affordable Care Act requires that most Americans obtain health insurance by 2014 or pay a tax penalty. The penalty will be applied to your annual taxable income for each month you don't have health insurance after March 31, 2014, the last day to enroll. 

Based on household income and dependents, you may be eligible for health insurance coverage at no cost through Medicaid. Or, you may be eligible for new health insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace – and financial help from the government towards the cost of premiums may be available.

“This is where Jennersville Regional Hospital can help the uninsured in our community,” said Teresa Rougeaux, hospital spokesperson. “Some residents lack access to a computer and others just need help maneuvering through the enrollment website. Our application counselors can assist individuals and their families in evaluating the available health plans and determining if they’re eligible for Medicaid or other insurance options." To make an appointment for sign-up help, call 610-869-1300.

All health plans on the Marketplace must offer a comprehensive set of benefits, and individuals cannot be denied coverage based on a pre-existing condition. Some of the available health benefits include preventive care and wellness services, doctor visits, prescription drugs, hospital and emergency department care, lab services, and pediatric services.

“Even though Pennsylvania has chosen not to expand Medicaid at this time, there are still individuals in our community who may qualify for Medicaid coverage,” Rougeaux said. “We can help screen these individuals and if they qualify, we can enroll them at any time, with health coverage beginning immediately.”