Marketplace Open Enrollment Ends on December 15

DAYTON, Ohio, Dec. 8, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- As a mission-based health plan, CareSource is committed to offering Ohioans access to quality, affordable health care coverage. In 2018, CareSource will offer health care coverage in 60 Ohio counties to consumers who shop for plans on the Marketplace.

At CareSource, we want people to understand that affordable health care coverage is still available through the Marketplace. In order to take full advantage of health care coverage options this year, it's important to be aware of some of the Marketplace changes and the best way to adapt.

6 Things Consumers Should Know About Marketplace Health Insurance

1. The 2017 Open Enrollment period is significantly shorter.
The time frame to enroll in Marketplace coverage is much shorter this year, with enrollment taking place from Nov. 1 – Dec. 15, 2017. This means consumers need to act now to research their coverage options and enroll in a health plan, so they can have coverage beginning January 2018.

2. Many plans have left the Marketplace.
As plans have left the Marketplace, many consumers have been alternately enrolled in new health plans. If you find yourself in this situation, pay attention to information you receive in the mail from your current insurer, Center for Medicaid Services (CMS), and your newly assigned insurer. Remember, even though you've been assigned, you have the option to change to the plan of your choice.

3. Shop around to find the right plan.
It's important to assess your coverage needs based on your life circumstances to make the best decision for you and your family. Look at premiums and cost sharing levels, but also check which doctors are in network.

Even if a plan did not include your doctor last year, check again for 2018. Some plans, like CareSource, have recently signed agreements with new provider groups. This means more doctors may be in network beginning on January 1, 2018.

4. Rates are changing.
Every Ohio County will have a Marketplace insurer in 2018, but there have been some changes in pricing and available plans. Plans have changed and rates have increased, but premiums can still be affordable as a result of available tax credits.

5. Tax credits will keep coverage affordable.
When someone signs up for Marketplace insurance, their age and personal profile will help determine their base premium rate. However, many consumers will qualify for tax credits that subsidize the cost of premiums, and can reduce the base rate.

These tax credits are available based on factors like income and household size, and will significantly reduce the cost of insurance for many families. To determine what subsidies are available to you, apply for Marketplace coverage online at HealthCare.Gov.

6. Help is Available.
If you would like to learn more about your plan options, or if you have any questions about your coverage, visit CareSource.com/Marketplace.

About CareSource
CareSource is a nonprofit nationally recognized as an industry leader in providing member-centric health care coverage. Founded in 1989, CareSource administers one of the nation's largest Medicaid managed care plans. Today, CareSource offers individuals and families comprehensive health and life services including Marketplace and Medicare Advantage plans.

Headquartered in Dayton, Ohio, CareSource serves more than 1.8 million members in Ohio, Kentucky, Indiana, West Virginia and Georgia. CareSource understands the challenges consumers face navigating the health system and works to put health care in reach for those it serves.

For more, visit caresource.com, follow @caresource on Twitter, or like CareSource on Facebook.

Contact: Fran Robinson
Manager, Media Relations
[email protected] 
937-531-2374

SOURCE CareSource