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Medicare provides health insurance coverage for most Americans over 65 years old or suffering from a disability.  According to the NCPSSM, over 56 million Americans are currently on Medicare receiving an average benefit of $12,829 each.

The Open Enrollment Period (OEP) gives Americans the chance to purchase or make changes to their health insurance plans.  It’s been happening every year since President Obama passed the Affordable Care Act in 2010.

While President Trump and other government officials have been pushing for changes to the American health insurance system, there is nothing concrete yet for 2019.  But there are still some changes you need to be aware of as a consumer.

What are the changes to Open Enrollment?

Open Enrollment Period start date

The Trump administration shortened the Open Enrollment Period from 90 days to 45 days last year and changes will carry over to this year. Open Enrollment for 2019 takes place between November 1^st and December 15^th, 2018.

Changes to “Essential Health Benefits” benchmark plans

Previously, the Affordable Care Act required 10 basic coverages that marketplace plans had to have.  But now, states will be able to build their own benchmark plans.  This new rule will give health insurance companies more flexibility and hopefully more choice to consumers.

Be sure to review your plan as it may have changed.

No penalties for those without health insurance

Prior to this change, people who did not have health insurance would have to pay a tax penalty.  This new rule will give exemptions to people living in counties with no health insurance companies or where there is only one insurer offering coverage.

People in counties where the only health insurer covers abortions are also exempt if abortions go against their religious beliefs.

Get help with your 2019 Open Enrollment

There are a lot of changes coming down the pipe for 2019.  You can read the full CMS rules if you’re curious.

And as a bonus tip, you should also update your application with new expected income and household information.  Plans and prices change every year and there will be different plans available in 2019.  You should review your coverage and all of the plans available.  There might be one that better fits your needs.

For more information or help navigating the changes to health insurance, get in touch with the experts at healthquoteinfo.com or call us at 855-881-0430.  Our licensed health insurance advisors would be happy to assist.