National Consumers League Urges Consumers to Enroll in Marketplace Health Insurance by January 31 Deadline

WASHINGTON, Jan. 25 -- The National Consumers League issued the following news release:

Amidst uncertainty about the future of health insurance for millions of Americans, the National Consumers League (NCL), the nation's pioneering consumer advocacy organization, is joining with other health advocacy groups urging consumers to enroll in health coverage by the January 31, 2017 deadline.

"While the debate over repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act swirls in Congress, the most important thing that consumers can do right now to protect their health is to enroll in or change their Marketplace health insurance plan by the January 31, 2017 deadline. Consumers can go to HealthCare.gov to find a plan that works for them," said Sally Greenberg, NCL executive director.

Along with its colleagues in the health advocacy community, NCL is encouraging consumers to enroll in coverage in order to take advantage of a range of free benefits and preventive services covered under the Affordable Care Act, including birth control, HIV screenings, cancer screenings, diabetes screenings, and other important health services.

At HealthCare.gov, consumers can compare plans and choose the combination of price and coverage that best fits their needs and budget. Consumers will also be able to find out if they qualify for financial help with their premium costs.

If consumers have questions about health insurance, they can visit MyHealthPlan.Guide, a joint project of NCL and America's Health Insurance Plans, to educate consumers about choosing and using their health insurance and living a healthy lifestyle. Consumers may also contact HealthCare.gov's Marketplace Call Center toll-free at 1-800-318-2596 for assistance with enrolling.

The Health Insurance Exchanges will remain in place through 2017. "Don't place yourself or your family at financial risk from unexpected health expenses. Enroll in coverage now before it's too late!" said Greenberg.

About the National Consumers League

The National Consumers League, founded in 1899, is America's pioneer consumer organization. Our mission is to protect and promote social and economic justice for consumers and workers in the United States and abroad. For more information, visit www.nclnet.org.

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