Health Insurance Marketplace Toolkit

Starting in 2014, most Americans will have to carry health insurance. Many people, including those who are uninsured, will benefit from the new coverage options offered through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This will include options to buy insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace in your state.

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Insurance is required for most individuals in 2014. Open enrollment in the Marketplace starts on October 1, 2013 and ends on March 31, 2014. If you do not have insurance by March 31, 2014, you may be charged a fee.

The Marketplace toolkit is designed for individuals who do not currently have health insurance. However, if you have health insurance through an employer, Medicare, or Medicare, this toolkit still can be a great resource to you. Many of the tools can help you learn more about the health insurance you already have. Other tools will be more helpful to people shopping for new insurance in the Marketplace.

Choosing insurance can be confusing. Even more so if this is your first time and you are dealing with arthritis. Individuals with arthritis have to look at plans to make sure certain medicines, devices and surgeries are included. You may need coverage for joint replacement. You may need biologics. You may need physical therapy. When you choose a plan, you must think about many things.

The Arthritis Foundation Marketplace Toolkit has information and tools to help you understand your options and help you make the right decision.

New To Health Insurance? A User's Guide[ +- ]
Buying insurance can be difficult. This is particularly true if you are living with a condition like arthritis, which requires specific care. These basic resources will help you understand words like copays, out-of-pocket maximums, in-network providers and subsidies.
- Health Insurance 101
  Community Catalyst & Georgetown University Health Policy Institute
- Health Insurance Marketplace Publications & Articles
  CMS Health Insurance Marketplace
Health Reform [ +- ]
The Affordable Care Act protects people with health insurance coverage. It also helps people get coverage. Get answers to questions about your coverage starting in 2014.
- Health Reform Consumer Fact Sheet
  Consumer Reports
- Health Reform Frequently Asked Questions
  Kaiser Family Foundation
- Kaiser YouToons
  Kaiser Family Foundation
Understanding Your Choices [ +- ]
Starting in 2014, many people will have new options for insurance. For one, plans can no longer deny coverage for a pre-existing condition like arthritis. Plan options will be different in each state. The Arthritis Foundation is here to help you. Learn more about your choices and the new options with the following resources.
- Health Insurance Marketplace Publications & Articles
  CMS Health Insurance Marketplace
- Marketplace – Exchange Consumer Center
  Healthcare.gov
- State Consumer Assistance Program Website
  Center for Consumer Information & Insurance Oversight (CCIIO)
Managing Your Costs [ +- ]
Starting in 2014, financial help will be available. You can find a plan that is in your budget and meets your needs. You may qualify for tax credits that lower your costs. The information below will help you learn how to find the right coverage in 2014.
- Marketplace – Exchange Enrollment Consumer Center
  Healthcare.gov
- State Consumer Assistance Program Website
  Center for Consumer Information & Insurance Oversight (CCIIO)

Click on your state below to access the Marketplace Checklist and details on your Marketplace plan options

This toolkit was supported by Cooperative Agreement Number DP003828 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Its contents are solely the responsibility of the Arthritis Foundation and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.