Savannah area experienced surge in Obamacare applications
By Marcus E. Howard, Savannah Morning News, Ga. | |
McClatchy-Tribune Information Services |
Lawton joined others locally who sought coverage before the
Across the country, more than 7.5 million people have signed up for coverage under the new health care law as of
In
A noticeable surge in applications as well as apparent outreach efforts, data shows, occurred in March.
The council, a county-wide group that works to increase access to health services, reported that 3,846 people (1,375 in March) were provided with outreach and educational services at the
The data does not reflect those who have signed up for coverage on their own or with other organizations.
"The large increase in March Affordable Care Act enrollment assistance in
"The motivation to enroll in quality and affordable health care was strong and will allow many to get the health care they deserve and have previously not received."
Lawton was one of those motivated to seek coverage.
"It's expensive," he said in explaining why he has been uninsured. "I couldn't afford it."
On
More than 130 people attended, according to organizers, which is about the same number who visited the council's enrollment fair in December.
With some exceptions, adults who did not sign up by the
"I'd rather not pay that penalty," said Lawton, 52. "If you're going to pay, you might as well pay for the insurance."
Statewide, 177,668 people had signed up for coverage through the health exchange as of
The 7 million national figure reported, according to the
Critics of the law have argued that the figures released by President
There is no deadline for enrollment in
Gov.
Before wrapping up the 2014 session, state lawmakers passed legislation that requires the legislature, and not the governor, to approve expansion of
___
(c)2014 Savannah Morning News (Savannah, Ga.)
Visit the Savannah Morning News (Savannah, Ga.) at savannahnow.com
Distributed by MCT Information Services
Wordcount: | 729 |
Flyers runners-up at Whiteoak Wood Bat Classic
Kennebec Savings Bank changing structure
Advisor News
Annuity News
Health/Employee Benefits News
Life Insurance News