The Affordable Care Act (ACA) is still in effect, and it’s good to know that ACA health insurance plans available on the federal exchange have some benefits you may not know about. You can sign up during Open Enrollment (Nov. 1, 2021 - Jan. 15, 2022 in most states for 2022 health coverage) or if you have a qualifying life event any time of year.
Here are 7 lucky things about your current (or brand new!) ACA health plan:
1) Get advice (and sometimes meds) without leaving home
Many insurance plans cover virtual office visits or provide free 24-7 “dial a nurse” or “dial a doctor” lines where you can receive instant medical advice on a health issue. In some cases, a doctor can even diagnose you and prescribe what you need from the comfort of your couch.
2) Your new baby is covered automatically for 30 days
You have a lot to keep track of during the first month after your child’s arrival. Good news for the sleep-deprived: your child is retroactively covered as long as you enroll in health insurance by Day 30.
3) Choosing to breastfeed? Your plan helps out
All ACA health insurance plans are required to provide support to new mothers who make the choice to breastfeed. This includes providing a breast pump and supplies free of charge.
4) Your doctor’s bill may not show your discount
Save yourself a freak-out when you take your first peek at a physician or ER bill. The cost of your care is discounted by your health insurance plan … but you may not see the final tally until you get an Explanation of Benefits (a statement sent by your health insurance company explaining what treatments and services they paid for).
5) Counseling isn’t just a “nice-to-have”
Mental health counseling and treatment for addiction and other high risk behaviors are considered “minimum essential benefits” that all ACA health plans are required to provide.
6) Schedule that physical – it’s free
All ACA health insurance plans are required to pay the entire cost of an annual wellness visit as long as you stay within your recommended schedule of tests and examinations. Children’s wellness visits are free too.
7) You may have a tax credit/subsidy coming (want to see?)
Your household may qualify for a tax credit to make the cost of your health plan more affordable. (Plug: if you shop for insurance through Mylo, our handy calculator lets you see the amount on the spot.)
If you need help navigating the maze of health insurance options, call the friendly licensed agents at Mylo! We look forward to helping you out, even if you just want advice.
If you live in California, Colorado, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Nevada, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, or Washington, you're required to enroll through your state's website. If you live in one of the other 38 states, we'd be happy to help.