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ACA open enrollment begins in First State

Department of Health and Human Services

The open enrollment period for the Delaware’s Health Insurance Marketplace is underway, and there is a rate reduction.

 

Delaware residents can renew existing health insurance coverage or sign up for a new plan.  The open enrollment period for 2021 coverage started on November 1, and it ends on December 15.

Monthly premiums for coverage will be one percent lower on average than in  2020. 

Delaware has a limited number of providers in its marketplace, but Delaware Insurance Commissioner Trinidad Navarro says they offer a variety of marketplace plans.

"Highmark Blue Cross- Blue Shield of Delaware who offers Delaware's Marketplace health plans has 12 options this year. Delta Dental and Dominion Dental will offer a total of 11 stand alone dental plans on the marketplace as well."

Sen. Tom Carper says those who are struggling without a health insurance plan should try the marketplace.

"For those who don't have health care coverage in this country, they're not using employee provided health care, not able to access Medicare or Medicaid they're not a veteran like some of us are,the Affordable Care Act is for you and the cost of it is becoming more affordable as we go by so check it out, I think you'll find you'll like what you see."

Delaware Health and Social Services Deputy Secretary Tanisha Merced says this enrollment period is especially important during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"For Delawareans who are worried  about contracting COVID-19 access to care is everything, and that's why this year's open enrollment for Delaware's Health Insurance is more important than ever."

Those who don’t enroll by December 15 will not get 2021 coverage unless they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period based on certain circumstances like the loss of qualifying health coverage, change of income, becoming a parent, or other qualifying factors. 

Joe brings over 20 years of experience in news and radio to Delaware Public Media and the All Things Considered host position. He joined DPM in November 2019 as a reporter and fill-in ATC host after six years as a reporter and anchor at commercial radio stations in New Castle and Sussex Counties.