Frequently Asked
Questions

The Affordable Care Act (ACA), also known as “Obamacare,” is a comprehensive healthcare reform law enacted in March 2010. It aims to provide more Americans with access to affordable health insurance, expand the Medicaid program, and introduce measures to reduce overall healthcare costs.

You can apply for ACA health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace during the open enrollment period or during a special enrollment period if you qualify. Connect Care Insurance offers assistance in navigating the application process online, by phone, or in person.

The Health Insurance Marketplace is a platform available in each state where individuals, families, and small businesses can shop for and enroll in affordable health insurance plans. Connect Care Insurance provides guidance to help you choose the plan that best fits your needs.

ACA-compliant plans offered through Connect Care Insurance cover a range of essential health benefits, including preventive care, emergency services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, mental health services, and prescription drugs. These plans also feature protections like caps on out-of-pocket costs.

As of 2019, the federal penalty for not having health insurance has been reduced to $0. However, some states have their own individual mandates and penalties. Connect Care Insurance can provide detailed information based on your state’s regulations.

Premium tax credits are subsidies that help lower the cost of health insurance premiums for eligible individuals and families. These credits can be applied directly to your monthly insurance premium, making coverage more affordable. Connect Care Insurance can help determine your eligibility and assist in applying these credits.

Medicaid expansion under the ACA allows states to extend Medicaid eligibility to more low-income individuals, including adults without children, with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level. Eligibility and availability vary by state. Connect Care Insurance can assist in determining your eligibility for Medicaid or other assistance programs.

Small businesses with fewer than 50 full-time equivalent employees are not required to provide health insurance to their employees under the ACA. However, they can participate in the Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) to offer insurance and potentially receive tax credits. Connect Care Insurance offers consulting to help small businesses navigate their options.

Whether you can keep your current doctor depends on whether they are included in the network of the health insurance plan you choose. Connect Care Insurance helps you review plan networks to ensure access to your preferred healthcare providers.

ACA-compliant plans must cover essential health benefits such as emergency services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, mental health services, prescription drugs, rehabilitative services, laboratory services, preventive care, and pediatric services, including oral and vision care.

ACA-compliant plans cover a wide range of prescription drugs, including at least one drug per category and class in the U.S. Pharmacopeia’s recognized drug list. Connect Care Insurance can help you find a plan that covers your specific medication needs.

The ACA sets limits on the maximum out-of-pocket costs for covered services. Once this limit is reached, your insurance plan covers 100% of the costs for covered benefits. Connect Care Insurance provides information on these limits and helps you understand how they apply to your coverage.

The ACA prohibits insurance companies from denying coverage or charging higher premiums based on pre-existing conditions. Connect Care Insurance ensures that you receive the necessary coverage, regardless of your health history.

Recent changes to the ACA include the elimination of the federal individual mandate penalty, increased flexibility in short-term health plans, and variations in the definition of essential health benefits by state. Connect Care Insurance stays informed about these changes and helps clients understand how they may be affected. For personalized assistance or more information, please contact Connect Care Insurance. Our team of experts is here to guide you through the complexities of the ACA and find the best insurance coverage for your needs.