If you or a family member is going through recovery treatment and suddenly lost access to health insurance, your out of pocket expenses are likely going to skyrocket.
Don’t fret. The Maine Health Insurance Marketplace is an excellent option available to residents looking for exceptional, cost-effective health care. Keep reading to learn how to access the Marketplace so you can continue with your ongoing treatment.
The Basics: The Maine Health Insurance Marketplace
A Health Insurance Marketplace is a service committed to helping people shop for affordable health insurance. It’s a marketplace that lets individuals and small employers without group coverage to shop for insurance.
Insurers include Community Health Options, Harvard Pilgrim, and Anthem.
You’re able to compare health care plans and coverage options on healthcare.gov. In 2019, over 70,000 Maine residents had health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace. Roughly 85% of those people received financial help for their plan.
These discounts are income dependent and there’s no reason not to check if you qualify.
Comparing Costs
When comparing costs, you’ll need to understand premiums, deductibles, and provider networks.
A health care premium is the payment you make to keep your insurance active. Typically these will be monthly payments and have a specific due date. You want a low monthly premium.
A deductible is an amount you’re required to pay for health care before your insurance plan starts to contribute. For example, if your deductible is $1,000, you’ll have to accrue $1,000 in medical costs before your insurance starts to chip in. You want a low deductible.
After paying your deductible for the year, you may be required to make a copay for certain costs.
A provider network connects you to doctors, hospitals, and other health care professionals. The Process Recovery Center accepts over 50 major insurances, including Anthem BlueCross and Harvard Pilgrim.
Here’s a helpful calculator to give you an idea of what insurance costs are in the Marketplace. Consider which provider works best for you and your family’s needs.
Enrollment for 2021 Plans
Open enrollment runs from November 1 – December 15, 2020. Of course, if you have a qualifying event, such as the loss of other health coverage, you’re still eligible to make changes to your plan. And if you have a dependent under age 26, they’re eligible to receive benefits depending on your plan.
Across the three insurers that offer coverage in Maine’s Health Insurance Marketplace, the average monthly premiums have decreased by 13.1%. This is massive, considering the big three insurers estimated their premiums to remain fairly stagnant in their initial forecasts for the year.
Why Should I Get a Health Insurance Plan?
You and your loved one’s health shouldn’t be taken lightly. If you, your spouse, or child is in need, get them recovery care that they deserve.
With the decrease in Maine health insurance premiums in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s clear that affordable health insurance is critical for all. Enroll now to ensure you have coverage, should something happen.
If you or a loved one needs rehabilitation now, we’re conveniently located in Southern New Hampshire. Reach out today. Our team is committed to helping you take the next step towards recovery.
