Today is the day that the District begins a new chapter in making Obamacare a reality for residents! The federal government shutdown is not stopping DC government and it is not stopping health reform from going forward in DC. The DC health benefit exchange, known as DC Health Link (www.dchealthlink.com), is now available to help residents and small businesses sign up for quality and affordable health insurance plans, with coverage that starts January 1, 2014.
The lead up to DC Health Link’s launch coincides with speculation and scrutiny of “glitches” in health reform implementation across the country, but the District’s Dime is here to give you the facts about DC’s online health insurance marketplace. Starting today:
- Small businesses can create an online account, use it to compare 267 plan options by specific benefits and doctor networks, set contribution levels for their employees, and purchase insurance directly online.
- Individuals and families needing to buy insurance can create their account, use it to compare 34 plans by benefits and doctor networks, and find out the help they can receive through subsidies and tax credits. Families and individuals who do not qualify for tax credits can purchase plans immediately. Residents applying for tax credits will have to wait to see if they are eligible, a determination that will be made by early November.
- Individuals and families applying for or renewing Medicaid can do so online through the Health Link portal. They also can apply via telephone or apply in-person at a Department of Human Services service center.
- All residents and small businesses needing advice and guidance can access the help of a Health Link Assister or broker via the web portal. The District’s Call-Center (1- 855-532-5465) is also available to take consumer questions and to help with the application and enrollment process.
Tomorrow, the District’s Dime will go into more detail about how DC is leading the country in health reform implementation. But until then, please visit www.dchealthlink.com and happy shopping!
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