By WKTV Staff
With the opening of the Health Insurance Marketplace open enrollment period on Nov. 1, and running though Jan. 15, 2022, the State of Michigan recently announced that “Michiganders have more plans to choose from, more low- or no-cost coverage options, and more time to enroll.”
During open enrollment, Michigan consumers are able to choose from 174 approved health plans from 10 insurers on the Health Insurance Marketplace, which is available at HealthCare.gov or by calling 800-318-2596. In addition, an increased number of off-marketplace plans are also available, bringing the total number of individual plans available to Michiganders to 256, according to the state announcement.
“Many people worry it is either too expensive or too complicated to sign up for a health plan. Fortunately, Michigan remains one of the least expensive states in the country to purchase health insurance,” Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS) Director Anita Fox said in supplied material. “Comprehensive health insurance leads to better health outcomes, so open enrollment is an important opportunity for Michiganders to protect their health and financial wellness.”
Fox also stressed that there is free, local enrollment help available by visiting LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov or calling 800-318-2596.
Overall, the average rate increase on the individual market available to Michigan residents is 4.7 percent, below the 6 percent average annual increase in health care costs seen during the last two years, according to DIFS information. Michigan is also benefitting from federal program changes.
“Michigan has called for expanded health coverage opportunities throughout the pandemic, and I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for its continued work in lowering costs to high-quality, comprehensive health insurance for Michigan’s working families,” Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said in supplied material. “Through increased subsidies, an extended enrollment period, and more investment in local assistance, Michiganders have the support they need to get covered for 2022.”
Increased subsides established by the federal American Rescue Plan continue to allow more Michiganders the opportunity to qualify for low- or no-cost coverage will continue in 2022. Before applying, Michiganders can visit HealthCare.gov/Lower-Costs to estimate whether they may qualify for subsidies and other savings.
The Biden-Harris Administration also extended the 2022 Open Enrollment period so that consumers have until Jan. 15 to enroll. However, “consumers generally need to choose a plan by December 15 for their coverage to start January 1, 2022,” according to the state announcement.
In addition, $3.3 million in grants have been awarded to three Michigan organizations to expand access to qualified Navigators who provide free assistance to consumers who need help signing up for health coverage. For assistance, visit LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov or call 800-318-2596.
