Finding the right health insurance doesn’t have to be complicated. At Shields & Associates Insurance Agency, we help individuals and families understand their Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace health insurance options and find coverage that fits their healthcare needs and budget.

Depending on your household income and eligibility, you may qualify for premium tax credits that can significantly reduce the amount you pay each month for health insurance. Some individuals and families may qualify for plans with very low monthly premiums.

What Is ACA Health Insurance?

Affordable Care Act health insurance, often called ACA, Marketplace, or Obamacare insurance, is individual and family health coverage available through the Health Insurance Marketplace or an approved state-based Marketplace.

ACA-compliant plans cover essential health benefits and cannot deny you coverage or charge you more because of a pre-existing health condition.

Coverage generally includes:

• Doctor and specialist visits
• Emergency services
• Hospitalization
• Prescription medications
• Preventive and wellness services
• Laboratory services
• Mental health and substance use disorder services
• Maternity and newborn care
• Pediatric services
• Rehabilitative and habilitative services

Could You Qualify for Financial Assistance?

Many people who purchase health insurance through the Marketplace qualify for financial assistance based on factors such as household income, household size, and eligibility for other health coverage.

Premium tax credits can reduce your monthly insurance premium. Depending on your eligibility and the plan you choose, additional savings may also be available that reduce deductibles, copayments, and other out-of-pocket costs.

We can help you review the options available to you and explain the differences in plain English.

When Can You Enroll?

Most people enroll in ACA health insurance during the annual Open Enrollment Period.

However, you may be able to enroll or change coverage outside Open Enrollment if you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period because of certain life events, such as:

• Losing qualifying health coverage
• Getting married
• Having or adopting a child
• Moving to a new coverage area
• Certain changes in household circumstances
• Other qualifying events

Eligibility and enrollment deadlines can vary, so it is important to review your situation as soon as possible after a life change.

Why Work With Shields & Associates?

Health insurance plans can differ considerably in premiums, deductibles, prescription coverage, provider networks, and out-of-pocket costs.

We help you compare your available options so you can make an informed decision.

Our assistance does not cost you anything extra.

We can help you:

• Compare available Marketplace health plans
• Check whether you may qualify for premium tax credits
• Understand premiums, deductibles, copays, and maximum out-of-pocket costs
• Review doctor and hospital networks
• Review prescription drug coverage
• Complete your Marketplace enrollment
• Make changes when your household circumstances change
• Review your coverage each year

Already Have Marketplace Health Insurance?

Your health insurance needs—and the plans available in your area—can change from year to year.

Before automatically renewing, it can be helpful to review your current coverage, premium, doctors, prescriptions, deductible, and available alternatives.

Our agency can help you review your Marketplace coverage and determine whether your current plan continues to meet your needs.

Get Help Finding Health Insurance

Whether you are currently uninsured, losing employer coverage, shopping for a different plan, or simply trying to understand your options, Shields & Associates Insurance Agency is here to help.

Get started today and let us help you explore the health insurance options available to you.