Approximately 80% of Americans participate
in employer- or government-sponsored health insurance plans. However,
approximately 15% of individuals are currently uninsured. In Philadelphia, 14.5%
of adults and approximately 5% of children are uninsured.
On October 1, a new option for
health insurance for uninsured and under-insured individuals became available
through the Health Insurance Marketplace (Marketplace) created by the
Affordable Care Act. The Marketplace offers uninsured and under-insured
individuals a way to obtain affordable health insurance coverage.
To prepare for the October 1
launch, HPC has been working with PHMC to educate individuals throughout
Philadelphia about the Marketplace through a grant PHMC received from US
Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services
Administration. The grant has allowed PHMC and HPC to hire Outreach and
Enrollment Specialists to help individuals become insured through the
Marketplace.
Together, PHMC and HPC Outreach and
Enrollment Specialists have been conducting outreach and education events at
PHMC health centers and other community sites to raise awareness about the
Marketplace -- sharing information about how the Marketplace works, who is
eligible, and how to enroll. Beginning October 1, Outreach and Enrollment
Specialists also began assisting individuals with enrollment. Outreach and
enrollment activities will continue through 2014.
HPC is excited about this exciting
opportunity to partner with PHMC and to utilize its expertise in community
outreach and education to support community members in obtaining health
insurance through the new Health Insurance Marketplace!
