For many Americans that don’t have access to group health insurance coverage, now is the time of year that most are looking for individual & family coverage for 2018. There are two main options: Marketplace Plans (also known as ACA or Obamacare Plans) and Private Health Insurance Plans. 
For the Marketplace Plans, the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) Open Enrollment period is ending soon. For most states, the deadline to enroll in or change Marketplace health insurance plans for 2018 through www.HealthCare.gov is December 15, 2017.
Some states have extended their deadlines past December 15. For example, Florida and Texas have extended the deadline until December 31 for residents in counties that were impacted by the hurricanes.
Also, some states don’t use www.HealthCare.gov and have their own state marketplace websites such as California, New York, Massachusetts, Colorado, and several others. Refer to this link for information on what marketplace your individual state uses and their individual deadline dates.
These plans typically have higher premiums, higher deductibles, and smaller networks. Some people can qualify for subsidies which are based on net income that can lower their premiums, and in some cases, their deductibles and co-pays.
Depending on the state, there are also private health insurance plans available directly through the health insurance carriers/companies and also through independent health insurance agents & brokers like myself. Most of these plans involve underwriting or having to answer health questions to be approved, and may not provide all of the health benefits of an ACA Compliant plan such as maternity care, immediate coverage for pre-existing conditions, etc.
These plans can often be a much more affordable option for healthier individuals. Either way, there are still health insurance options available to everyone for 2018 coverage.
Jason Oppenheimer is a licensed Health & Life Insurance Agent with Healthcare Solutions Team, a nationwide team of optimists, health insurance advisers, health care problem solvers and medical insurance advocates. He’s committed to helping individuals, families and groups get the absolute best health, dental & vision insurance coverage for their unique needs and budget. Jason is originally from the Chicago Area and a graduate of Northern Illinois University. He is a resident of Arizona and has lived in the Phoenix Area for the last 10 years.
Jason Oppenheimer
Healthcare Solutions Team
480-788-3306