Open enrollment for health insurance under the Affordable Care Act runs November 1 through January 31, 2017, and many are browsing through plans at www.healthcare.gov. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Virginians can shop from among 34 plans with 11 different insurance companies.
However, navigating the choices can be difficult for some health-care consumers, particularly those without access to computers.
For those who would like help, Maite Arroyo-Torres with the Martinsville Henry County Coalition for Health and Wellness will be on-hand Thursday, Nov. 10, from 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., in the Pioneer Community Hospital lobby.
Arroyo-Torres said no appointment is necessary, and those who can’t see her Thursday may visit her at Bassett Family Practice. She can explain the deductibles, co-pays, and coverage guidelines for various plans; and either help people sign up or simply provide information.
“It is completely free,” Arroyo-Torres explained. “The benefit is for the person who enrolls or finds a good insurance plan.” Arroyo-Torres is not an insurance broker and does not earn commission from enrollments.
Those coming to the clinic should know their estimated incomes, and the dates of birth of those in their households, Arroyo-Torres said. “Everything is confidential,” she continued. “I don’t keep any information from any of the consumers.”
To enroll in a plan, a person must be an area resident, and must be either a U.S. citizen or have an Employment Authorization Document from the U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (work permit). Arroyo-Torres said she is able to help residents who speak only Spanish.
The Martinsville Henry County Coalition for Health and Wellness supports medical services at Bassett Family Practice, and promotes access to medical care primarily for the uninsured and underserved. Call (276) 734-0035 for more information.
Tri-Area Community Health’s Laurel Fork location also has certified application counselors who can help with enrollment. For more information, call (276) 398-2292.
– Angela H. Hill
