Affordable Care Act Open Enrollment

November 02, 2016 | United Way Team

The Linn County Community Partnership is partnering with local hospitals, healthcare providers, and United Way of East Central Iowa to provide free assistance for navigating through Health Insurance Marketplace coverage in 2017. Assistance is available November 1, 2016 through January 31, 2017.

The Affordable Care Act Marketplace, healthcare.gov, offers a choice of Qualified Health Plans to every county in the State of Iowa. Qualifying individuals who purchase through the Marketplace will receive federal tax credits in advance to reduce the monthly cost of coverage.

Last year, the Partnership served over 400 households. With 1 in 14 individuals in Linn County still uninsured, the Partnership provides convenient, free assistance to navigate through the often complex Federal Marketplace.

This year, enrollees have the choice of three providers. Members who had coverage through the Marketplace from United Healthcare can get help choosing a new plan for 2017.

"With the launch of the fourth Marketplace Open Enrollment Period, we will be able to offer Iowans affordable options for health insurance coverage," said Navigator Karen Wielert of Planned Parenthood of the Heartland.

Trained enrollment specialists are available by appointment to provide free and confidential assistance. Enrollment specialists provide enrollees information about the range of health plans available on healthcare.gov, as well as other public health insurance programs offered, including Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Those already enrolled in Marketplace coverage can also benefit by having their healthcare coverage reviewed, and compare other plans.

Appointments are available by calling 2-1-1, 319-739-4211, or your healthcare provider.


About the Linn County Community Partnership
Linn County Community Partnership formed in 2012 to help people learn about their options and enroll in quality, affordable coverage. The Partnership includes Community Health Free Clinic, Eastern Iowa Health Center, Hawkeye Area Community Action Program, Mercy Medical Center, Unity Point Health–Cedar Rapids, His Hands Clinic, Planned Parenthood of the Heartland, and Linn County Public Health and others. Certified Application Counselors are affiliated with a designated organization and are trained to provide assistance to consumers on the federal Marketplace and DHS Web portal. For more information about the Partnership, visit facebook.com/linncountycommunitypartnership.