Community Health Centers are essential institutions in every country as their main purpose is to provide health care to the underserved members of society.
In the U.S, the federal government under President Barack Obama made it possible for all states to expand their community health services by building new centers through the additional $2 billion funding commitment embodied in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.
Although community health centers (CHCs) provide care to everyone regardless of their ability to pay, the services available are usually primary and preventive care services for immunizations, pediatrician and OB-GYN doctor visits , laboratory and radiology, pharmacy, dental, health screenings and mental health services.
Low income families who face additional medical costs but who do not have health insurance coverage can still be served by enrolling in the state’s Medicaid program. Those whose income do not qualify for Medicaid, can find financial assistance and/or affordable health coverage from the federal Health Insurance Marketplace. However, individuals or families need te enroll before the Open Enrolment Period/
What is the Health Insurance Marketplace?
The Obamacare health insurance or also known as the Federal Health Insurance Marketplace supplies affordable health plans like a shopping place. Specifically available only for those who are registered through the website.
Florida takes pride in having the widest health care plan to offer under the Obamacare or Affordable Care Act. Statistics show that as of last year, 95% of people enrolled at the Florida Marketplace have received subsidies that decrease their monthly premiums. They have also announced that the Open Enrollment period for next year will start on the first day of November up to January 15, 2022.
What is an Open Enrollment Period?
Open Enrollment Period refers to the time period that people can sign up during a year, for affordable insurance at the Marketplace. The period is also the time when they can make some changes when renewing their current plan or change to change their plan entirely.
Those who missed the annual OEP for the year will have to wait until the next year to avail insurances; not unless they are able to provide a valid reason.
Nearly all health insurance plans have an OEP and it includes workplace-based plans. These plans include those that are presented by employers that have more than 50 employees, Medicare, and individual policies that can be bought for personal use or for a whole family.