Mary Black Health System offering Affordable Care Act enrollment help

Oct. 31--Mary Black Health System in Spartanburg is once again offering free assistance for those who need help comparing plans or applying on the Health Insurance Marketplace.

The open enrollment period is Nov. 1 to Jan. 31, 2017.

Appointments may be made with the hospital's certified assisters by calling 864-573-3194, or can be booked online at www.GetCoveredAmerica.org/connector.

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) was passed in 2010, and this year's open enrollment marks the fourth annual campaign to extend health care coverage to citizens who would otherwise be uninsured. More than 13 million people enrolled in Marketplace plans for 2016.

The government uses household income to determine who is eligible for financial assistance. This aid might include advanced tax credits to help pay for premiums, or discounts on co-pays and deductibles.

All health plans on the Marketplace must offer a comprehensive set of benefits, and coverage cannot be denied for those with a pre-existing health condition.

Some of the health benefits include free preventive care and wellness services; doctor visits; prescription drugs; hospital and emergency department care; lab services; pediatric services; and mental and behavioral health treatment.

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