CRESTVIEW — If you’re uninsured, there’s still time to sign up for health insurance on the Health Insurance Marketplace and avoid the penalty.
Based on household income and dependents, some individuals may qualify for financial assistance from the government — or subsidies — toward the cost of the premium and other financial obligations like co-pays or deductibles.
“This is where North Okaloosa Medical Center can help the uninsured in our community,” said David Fuller, the hospital's CEO. “With many people lacking access to a computer or just (needing) help maneuvering through the enrollment website, our application counselors can help.
"We can (help) individuals and their families evaluate the available health plans and determine if they’re eligible for Medicaid or other insurance options."
Personal assistance is available 2-4 p.m. Thursdays, beginning Jan. 15 and ending Feb. 12 at NOMC's Community Resource Classroom, 127 E. Redstone Ave., Suite A. No appointment is necessary.
In all states, Medicaid provides health coverage for some low-income people, families and children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. In some states, the program covers all low-income adults below a certain income level.
“Even though Florida has chosen not to expand Medicaid, there are still many individuals in our community who qualify for Medicaid coverage,” Fuller said. We can help screen these individuals and, if they qualify, we can enroll them at any time, with health coverage beginning immediately.”
BUY OR FACE PENALTY
Under the Affordable Care Act, 2015 is the first year that Americans must prove they had qualifying health insurance — or an approved exemption — for the previous year, when filing 2014 taxes.
Or they face a tax penalty.
If you don’t obtain insurance by Feb. 15, the last day of the Open Enrollment period, the penalty will be applied to your annual taxable income for each full month you don't have health insurance in 2015. The penalty fee is $325 per adult, $162.50 per child — up to $975 per family or 2 percent of family income, whichever is higher. And, without insurance, you will be financially responsible for all of your medical costs.
Call North Okaloosa Medical Center, 689-8170, if you'd like to make an appointment for enrollment help for the Health Insurance Marketplace or Medicaid.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Hospital helps residents sign up for health insurance