Open Enrollment Nov. 1 – Dec. 15

The open enrollment period for the Health Insurance Marketplace begins Nov. 1 and runs through Dec. 15, 2019. Through the Marketplace, individuals are able to go to one place to search for health coverage options and choose from the health plans available in their area. Depending on your income, you may be able to get help from the federal government to lower the cost of your health insurance.

The best source for information about the Marketplace is the website www.healthcare.gov. The website is available 24/7 and provides information on how the Marketplace works, what the benefits are and key deadlines. Individuals can also call 1-800-318-2596 to speak with trained customer service representatives 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

For individuals needing further assistance, Parkland Health & Hospital System will have certified application counselors available from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday in Parkland’s Business Office to answer questions about the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and provide help enrolling in the Marketplace. The Business Office is located on the first floor of the old Parkland OPC, 5201 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, 75235.

If an individual misses the 2020 open enrollment period and does not qualify for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), they will have to wait until open enrollment begins for 2021. Additional information on exemptions is available at www.healthcare.gov.

In addition, a special enrollment period (SEP) outside of the yearly open enrollment exists for those with certain life events including losing health coverage, moving, getting married, having a baby or adopting a child. If an individual qualifies for an SEP, they usually have up to 60 days following the event to enroll in a plan. If they miss that window, they have to wait until the next open enrollment period to apply.

For more information about Parkland’s services, visit www.parklandhospital.com.