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Health & Fitness

Countdown to Coverage … Apply Now!

In need of health insurance? The deadline is fast approaching for new applicants to the Health Care Exchange, otherwise known as Covered California. The last day to enroll for January coverage is Dec. 23, 2013.  

All legal residents in the United States are required to have health insurance as of January 2014 as part of the Affordable Care Act. But if you miss the deadline, don’t panic: Open enrollment will continue through March 31, 2014. And don’t forget: Those with pre-existing conditions can no longer be denied coverage.

Here is how you can get insured:

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1)   Call Covered California at 1-800-300-1506.

2)   Apply at www.coveredca.com. Depending on your income, you may be eligible for free or subsidized health insurance. You can calculate your monthly or annual health care costs on the website.

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3)   Apply in person at one of the Marin County Health and Human Services (HHS) public assistance offices. Call 473-3400 for more information.

The Affordable Care Act will not affect your coverage if you are a Marin resident with health insurance through your employer or through Medicare.

Marin HHS, with the support of the Marin County Board of Supervisors, has been tirelessly working to get ready by adding 28 eligibility workers and streamlining services. Since March, HHS has held 60 meetings and public presentations throughout Marin about the Affordable Care Act.

“Health care reform means a healthier Marin, which also means a more

productive and vibrant community,” said Dr. Matt Willis, Marin County Public Health Officer. “HHS’ core mission is to promote and protect the health, well-being, safety and self-sufficiency of Marin. The Affordable Care Act provides an opportunity to forward that mission by leaps and bounds.”

Sparkie Spaeth, Deputy Director of Marin HHS, said word of mouth is a critical part of the outreach effort at this point. “We’re just one piece of the puzzle, and the most important piece is the community,” she said. “Everyone needs to encourage families, friends and neighbors to get covered now. HHS is committed to help each individual and family obtain health insurance. The more people who participate in the health insurance system, the more efficient and affordable health care will be for all.”

Visit http://coveredmarin.org/ to get updates on public presentations and the most current information about ACA implementation in Marin.





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