Georgia Enrollment Lagging As ACA Deadline Looms
By Julia Ritchey, Savannah Morning News, Ga. | |
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services |
Approximately 139,300 Georgians have selected a plan through the federally run marketplace, according to recent data from the
February enrollment in the Peach State was down, in line with a national decrease as more Americans wait until the last minute to decide on coverage.
One of five health carriers on
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Kendrick said Tuesday the majority of new enrollees have been an older population, typical of other states as well.
One of the demographics seen as key to the Affordable Care Act's success includes people between the ages of 18-30, who are usually healthier and have been much slower to sign up.
Last month, about 28 percent of the 38,000 new
"The good news is that our rates are certainly enough to cover the risk pool," said Kendrick.
As for small group insurance, those businesses with 50 full-time employees or less, Kendrick said that market has gone relatively unchanged. He said
Another reason is the deadline for the employer mandate has been pushed by a year, so many businesses have elected to stick with their current coverage.
Some small businesses have complained that the newer plans have higher premiums and reduced benefits, a result of covering a wider pool of individuals.
"Premiums have gone up because of the way you've priced the business," said Kendrick. "You are getting the same money, but you're squeezing how you get it."
Kendrick said now is the time to sign up and really understand what kind of coverage is included.
"People just need to understand what's covered and who the providers are. They need to see how the benefits compare," said Kendrick.
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