Since the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), Kentucky has made significant strides toward expanding coverage. Kentuckians enrolled in private plans through Kynect or Medicaid have seen their uninsured rates decline dramatically – reaching historic lows.
If the Affordable Care Act were repealed, these gains could be at risk. Without congressional intervention, here’s what Kentucky can expect:.
What is the Affordable Care Act?
The Affordable Care Act, commonly referred to as Obamacare, protects those with pre-existing conditions while making coverage affordable for many Americans by offering premium tax credits based on income and age; young adults can remain on their parents’ plan until age 26.
The Affordable Care Act prohibits insurance companies from denying coverage to people with preexisting conditions, while mandating coverage of essential benefits. Furthermore, this legislation allows individuals to select their own physician and facilitates easier comparison shopping on marketplaces.
Kentucky’s congressional delegation holds the power to make necessary changes and improve how Affordable Care Act works for Kentucky families. Speak up now and urge them to protect the ACA!
What is Kynect?
Previously known as the Kentucky Health Benefit Exchange, Kynect provides one-stop shopping to locate and compare health insurance plans from multiple private providers. Furthermore, this platform also serves as the only place where individuals may qualify for assistance from government programs in paying their premium.
The website remains active to assist Kentuckians enroll in health coverage during open enrollment and beyond, such as after experiencing qualifying life events. Under the Affordable Care Act, most individuals must have health insurance or face penalties.
The KYnect website provided resources in several languages and features that assist individuals seeking information or support, including a countdown to open enrollment’s end and an online pre-screening tool. It also listed local in-person assistance providers and community organizations; additionally, assisters partnered with state officials and assisted providers to host numerous local in-person kynect events throughout Kentucky while official representatives traveled around in branded RVs to promote enrollment.
How can I get health insurance?
Kentucky residents may sign up for an Affordable Care Act health plan during its annual Open Enrollment period from November 1 – December 15 each year. They may also qualify for special enrollment periods if certain life events arise, such as moving, getting married or having a baby.
Kentucky residents aged 26 or younger looking for an Affordable Care Act-compliant health insurance policy will find their cost varies based on age and metal tier of their policy. Bronze plans offer low monthly premiums but come with high deductibles and copayments; Silver plans have higher premiums with reduced deductibles/copayments while Gold plans provide the highest monthly premiums yet still provide lower out-of-pocket costs than Bronze/Silver policies.
As per your health care needs and budget constraints, an Affordable Care Act-compliant plan that meets them may be right for you. Options range from HMO plans that restrict where and how treatment can be obtained while requiring referrals to see specialists to PPO plans that give more freedom in seeking out-of-network treatment options.
How can I enroll in Kynect?
Kentucky residents looking for individual health coverage through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace have many choices available to them, from private plans to government-funded programs like Medicaid.
Cost of health plans in Kentucky depends on several factors, including where you live, what income level you have and your age. We offer our health insurance quote tool so that you can find one suitable to your needs.
Self-employed individuals may qualify for discounts through the Marketplace by using an insurance broker and/or enrollment kynector to provide coverage assistance and answer any questions that arise during enrollment.
Apply for a Qualified Health Plan during open enrollment from November 1st to December 15th. However, enrollment outside this window may also be possible depending on certain life events such as losing your job; you can learn more about qualifying life events and enrollment on Kynect website.