Local, Federal Officials Aim for 10 Million Americans Insured by End of 2016
Madison, WI—October 19, 2015— As the open enrollment period for the Health Insurance Marketplace approaches, a crucial community program is beginning its third year, bolstered by a new $1.3 million gift.
Open enrollment for 2016 coverage begins in 13 days on November 1, 2015 and runs to January 31, 2016. At today’s press conference, United Way of Dane County announced its groundbreaking HealthConnect program will continue for a third year, following a new $1.3 million gift from UW Health. United Way HealthConnect helps low-income individuals and families pay for their portion of their health insurance premium. “It is inspiring to see these community partners come together to ensure everyone’s health issues are identified and treated early. A healthy life for all Dane County residents is one of the core goals of our community’s Agenda for Change,” said Leslie Ann Howard, CEO of United Way of Dane County. “Thank you to UW Health for continuing this critical investment.”
“We are proud to help reduce the barriers to insurance coverage for people in Dane County,” said Dr. Jeffrey Grossman, CEO of UW Health. “This kind of investment not only helps individuals and families but creates a healthier and more stable community.”
Since United Way HealthConnect began in 2013, more than 1,300 Dane County individuals have been insured. HealthConnect helps individuals and families who earn between 100% and 150% of the federal poverty level (FPL). For a family of four, that income level amounts to about $24,000 to $36,000 per year. 40% of uninsured Americans who qualify for the Marketplace earn between 139% and 250% of the FPL, which emphasizes the need for programs like United Way HealthConnect.
“In Wisconsin, the average amount of tax credits came to $315 per person last year. 83% of the state’s consumers could buy a plan for $100 or less a month with tax credits. For other residents, programs like United Way HealthConnect will really make a difference. We are so grateful for the generosity of UW Health,” noted Congressman Mark Pocan.
“Nearly 8 in 10 of those who qualify for the Marketplace are eligible for financial help,” said Kathleen Falk, Health and Human Services Regional Director. “Because nearly 3 in 5 uninsured do not know that tax credits are available, we are especially grateful to all the community partners working to reach the uninsured.”
At the press conference, Falk was also joined by Senator Tammy Baldwin, representatives from Representative Mark Pocan’s office, UW Health Community Relations Director Juli Aulik and United Way of Dane County President Renee Moe. “It is my hope that Wisconsin’s un-insured and under-insured take advantage of this opportunity and experience the benefits the Affordable Care Act can provide,” said Senator Baldwin. “Because in the United States of America, health care should be a right guaranteed to all, not a privilege reserved for the few. That is what all of us standing here today have fought for and will continue to fight for as we move the Affordable Care Act forward. I am so proud to stand with these leaders in our community who have all committed the life in public service to these values and this fight.”
“The Health Insurance Marketplace is only open for three months, so it is critically important to get out the message to enroll now,” said Dane County Executive Joe Parisi. “We don’t want any uninsured residents to wake up on February 1st having missed this opportunity.”
The Health and Human Services Department is establishing a new goal of 10 million Americans insured by the end of 2016. Nationwide, about 17.6 million consumers have gained coverage, including more than 9 million last year. In Wisconsin, 183,682 consumers enrolled through the Marketplace.
“For coverage to start January 1st individuals must enroll –or reenroll –by December 15th. Each year the process gets simpler—you can even enroll using your cell phone. There also are trained professionals who provide free and confidential assistance to those shopping,” reminded Falk.
For more information on the Health Insurance Marketplace, please visit healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596. To find a local assister nearby, please visit https://connector.getcoveredamerica.org/widget/. For more USDHHS Region V updates, be sure to follow @HHSRegion5 on Twitter and use the hashtag #GetCovered.
For more information on HealthConnect, please call 211. The free hotline is open all day, every day. A 211 representative will guide Dane County residents to where to apply and find more information. To find more information online, please visit www.unitedwaydaneco.org/healthconnect.
