Some Marketplace plans closing in Florida this year

Changes are coming to the Federal Marketplace (Obamacare) plans right here in Florida. As of December 31st their will be some carriers, UnitedHealthcare and Aetna/Coventry closing their Marketplace plans. Humana is also closing its Marketplace plans in six counties in FL: Polk, Lake, Osceola, Seminole, Orange and Charlotte.

What This Means to You

If you are insured by one of these three insurance companies through the Marketplace they should have already sent you a letter advising you they won’t be offering your Marketplace plan next year. This means that the coverage you have now will end on December 31. Starting on November 1, you’ll have to start shopping for a new insurance plan for 2017 from a different insurance company.

Your plan will continue for the rest of this year if you need care. In the meantime, watch your inbox and mailbox. If your plan is being discontinued the Marketplace will send you more information about what you should do next.

Important Dates to Remember

• November 1: The Open Enrollment period begins. Shop early. Go to healthcare.gov to look at your health plan options and check you subsidy amount.
• November 1 to December 15: Choose your 2017 health plan during these dates to make sure your coverage starts on January 1.
• January 1: Be sure you make your first month’s payment for your new plan before this date to ensure that your coverage will be effective for this day.

Shop Smart

Did you know that monthly premiums are likely to go up by as much as 20% for most Florida health plans?- Tip: Shop around and know your options. See health plans available in your area at healthcare.gov or contact your local insurance agent.

Your out-of-pocket costs could be different!

– Tip: With changes to the deductible and out-of-pocket maximums changing make sure that your new plan meets your needs and budget. Know what it will cost you for medical services and prescriptions.

Doctors, hospitals and pharmacies are not the same with all plans and companies?

– Tip: If you like your current doctor check to see if they will continue to be able to see you in your new plan’s network.

What to do next

• Get Ready. Open enrollment for choosing your health insurance plan starts on November 1.
• Get Help. Go to healthcare.gov to update your subsidy application. This will help you know exactly how much you can get to put toward your monthly health insurance payment.
• Get answers. With all the options available it can be overwhelming to shop for a plan. Use resources like healthcare.gov, local agents or a specific insurance company to help you compare plans.
• Decide early. To avoid not having coverage on January 1 start the process early to avoid any disruptions in coverage. You’ll have peace of mind knowing that you can get the care you need when you need it.