Ill. State Rep. Buckner Reminds Residents of Health Insurance Coverage Open Enrollment Period

SPRINGFIELD, Illinois, Nov. 11 -- The Illinois House Democrats issued the following news release on behalf of State Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago:

As the open enrollment period for the Affordable Care Act (ACA) health insurance marketplace begins, state Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, is encouraging local residents to review their options for health insurance.

"The on-going COVID-19 pandemic has shown us the significance of having adequate and accessible health care coverage," Buckner said. "The ACA marketplace offers a wide variety of plans that will allow uninsured individuals to decide which option works best for them."

Buckner is encouraging all residents to make sure that they have health insurance coverage for the upcoming year by enrolling in a plan during the open enrollment period. Typically, the open enrollment runs from Nov. 1 until Dec. 15 but it is extended this year until Jan. 15, 2022 because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The number of health insurance providers offering plans has also increased this year. To enroll in a plan or find more information, please visit www.healthcare.gov.

"Historically access to affordable and comprehensive health care coverage has been difficult for Black and Brown communities. Health emergencies are unexpected and can lead to medical-bill hardship, but health insurance can help lower health care costs and provide access to preventative care," Buckner said. "Now is the time to act and take advantage of the open enrollment. I strongly suggest anyone who is uninsured get covered so they can be prepared for any health care situation."