If the term “open enrollment” causes you to feel stress, fear, confusion or dread - read on! Earlier this week, BCBSM hosted a Twitter chat with some very helpful experts on the subject to help answer some of the commonly asked questions when it comes to open enrollment and the Affordable Care Act. Sondra Pedigo, vice president, marketplace and regulatory business integration for BCBSM,; Rick Notter, director of Individual Business for BCBSM; and Andrew Hetzel, vice president of Corporate Communications, shared some valuable information and advice for consumers who may still have questions. Sound like you? Here are the three most important takeaways from the discussion: Be an educated consumer of heath care BCBSM is offering many different health plans this year providing the benefit of choice to Michigan consumers to find the plan that best fits their specific health and financial situations. As Sondra Pedigo pointed out, “Michigan has a very competitive Marketplace with 16 carriers offering plans for consumers to choose from. With that competitive landscape, it’s important to review details, including which doctors and hospitals accept your plan.” She also stressed the importance of understanding what your health plan will cover and what costs you may be responsible for, including deductibles and co-pays. You’re not alone, help is available! There are plenty of resources available to people who still have questions. Rick Notter reminded us, “BCBSM has 600 Health Plan Advisors, walk-in centers across the state and 6,000 agents ready to answer your specific questions.” In 2014, 88% of marketplace enrollments were eligible for a subsidy last year. Some subsidies lower your monthly premium and others assist with out-of-pocket health care expenses. To find out if you are eligible for a subsidy, text BLUESAVE to 222-752. There’s still time to get covered in 2015 – but don’t wait long! Notter reminded us that, “the enrollment period is much shorter this year, individuals only have until Feb. 15 to review options and enroll in a plan.” On average, it has only taken individuals who have enrolled thus far this year about 20 minutes on the phone with BCBSM, but hold times and call times tend to get longer closer to the deadlines. As Notter urged, “Don’t wait until February to call. Call now and #GetCovered!” Interested in reading more from the chat? Check out more highlights from yesterday’s chat here. Ready to enroll? Call a health plan advisor today at 855-237-3501.
