Georgia's health insurance open enrollment ending Wednesday

Wednesday is the last day for Georgians to enroll in plans on the Peach State's new health insurance marketplace.

The backstory:

When Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp was elected in 2019, he said creating a state-based insurance exchange was one of his top priorities. 

After years of work, Georgia received federal approval in August to open its marketplace. In October, the state launched the Georgia Access website. Officials said the system would allow Georgians to find health care policies that are both affordable and cover basic needs, just like the ACA’s website.

Unlike other state-based exchanges, the Georgia Access website emphasizes links that direct people to private web brokers and insurance agents. State officials say many Georgians are already using private options, and they will revoke an agent's license if they aren’t acting in the consumers’ best interest.

What they're saying:

"Open Enrollment is the optimal time for Georgians to explore affordable options for health coverage," said Insurance and Fire Commissioner John King. "Our innovative approach of partnering directly with private sector entities is tailored to fit how consumers already shop for health coverage, simplifying the enrollment process and ultimately reducing the number of uninsured Georgians."

What you can do:

Any Georgians who enroll on Wednesday will have your coverage beginning on Feb. 1.

You can see resources and get assistance on Georgia Access' website or by calling the Georgia Access contact center at (888) 687-1503.

The Georgia Access Contact Center will be open from 8 a.m. to midnight on Wednesday for Georgians who are hurrying to meet the deadline.

What's next:

After the Jan. 15 deadline, some Georgians will still be able to enroll in or modify coverage through what officials call a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).

Qualified individuals include those who have experienced a major life event like the birth of a child, marriage, divorce, a move, or gaining U.S. citizenship. 

Georgians who have an estimated annual household income below 150% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) - or around $22,000 - are also eligible to enroll at any time.

You can learn more about the SEPs here.

The Source: Information for this story came from the Office of the Insurance and Fire Commissioner and previous FOX 5 reporting.

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