Mimbres Memorial Hospital staff can help with health care open enrollment

Oct. 26--DEMING -- Beginning November 1, Mimbres Memorial Hospital will again help area residents learn about and enroll in health insurance options on the Health Insurance Marketplace.

"As a primary health provider in Luna County, our goal is to help educate residents in an easy-to-understand way, as well as assist those who haven't yet signed up for health insurance or Medicaid, if qualified," said Steve Westenhofer, CEO of Mimbres Memorial Hospital. "During the next few months, we'll be out in the community and meeting one-on-one to help these individuals find affordable coverage."

Health Plans on Health Insurance Marketplaces

The Health Insurance Marketplace provides U.S. citizens access to affordable health insurance coverage. Depending on household income, some individuals may qualify for government financial assistance -- or subsidies -- towards the cost of the premium and other financial obligations like co-pays or deductibles.

All health plans on the Marketplace must offer a comprehensive set of benefits, and coverage cannot be denied for individuals 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 more.

"This is where Mimbres Memorial Hospital can assist," said Westenhofer. "With many people not having access to a computer or having difficulty maneuvering on the government website, our application counselors can help individuals and their families evaluate the health plan options and determine if they are eligible for Medicaid or other financial assistance. We'll also help with re-enrollment. We have two certified application counselors on staff, Carmen Jimenez and Norma Valdez who are excited to help consumers with their enrollments."

A few of our outreach efforts will include:

--Beginning in November 1, consumers can make an appointment with our application counselors, Carmen or Norma, who will help them find affordable health insurance on the Marketplace.

--We will have informational panel cards throughout our facility, in our clinics, and around the community that includes a phone number to call to set up an appointment.

--We will host speaking engagements in the community to explain the insurance options, as well as how we can help with enrollment.

Though a major function of www.healthcare.gov is assessing whether individuals and families qualify for financial assistance to lower the cost of health insurance, Mimbres Memorial Hospital's application counselors can perform the same analysis and help with enrollment and re-enrollment. To make an appointment to check eligibility for health insurance, call 575-546-5840.

"Mimbres Memorial Hospital is committed to improving the health of the communities we serve by helping residents gain access to healthcare services," said Westenhofer.

Mimbres Memorial Hospital and Nursing Home is located at 900 W. Ash Street, Deming New Mexico.

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