Health insurance marketplace experts offer enrollment events Saturday, November 15

Open enrollment to purchase marketplace insurance – a component of the Affordable Care Act designed to allow individuals, families and small businesses the opportunity to shop for private health insurance based on quality and price - starts November 15.

Customers who enroll by December 15 will have coverage beginning January 1. After that, customers who enroll by January 15 will get coverage February 1 and those who wait until February 15, when the enrollment period ends, will have coverage begin March 1.

Certified Application Counselor Sloan DeLong explains that if you enrolled last year, counselors can assist with the re-enrollment process. “We want to help ensure that you have the best plan available for you and your family.”

In addition, many who applied for plans during last year’s enrollment did not qualify, but some changes could mean it’s worth another look. “This is a good time to come in and reapply,” says DeLong. “We can see if they qualify now, and if not, we can get an exemption done so they’re not penalized on their taxes next year.”

Certified Application Counselors from CoxHealth and Mercy will be at four events to provide enrollment support. Upcoming enrollment events are:

Saturday, November 15, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the OTC Computer Lab, 1001 E. Chestnut Expressway, Springfield.

Saturday, November 15, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at CoxHealth - Southwest Missouri Hub Office, 3318 S. National Ave., Springfield.

Saturday, November 15, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at OTC Computer Lab, 10698 Hwy 165, Hollister.

Tuesday, November 18, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Best Western Branson Inn, 8514 Missouri 76, Branson West.

Walk-ins are welcome, however it is preferred that people call (417) 269-INFO to register.

In order to enroll or learn what coverage you qualify for, you’ll need:

· social security numbers

· employer and income information for every member of your household who needs coverage (Pay stubs or W-2 forms are preferred, but not required.)

· policy numbers for any current health insurance plans covering members of your household

· knowledge of any job-based health insurance plans you or someone in your household is eligible for.

Certified application counselors are available at both CoxHealth and Mercy to assist people.

Scheduled an appointment with CoxHealth, 3318 S. National (Kelly Plaza), 417-269-2945, cac@coxhealth.com or Mercy, 417-820-0486.