Buckner Highlights Enrollment Period for Health Care Coverage

CHICAGO – State Rep. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, is reminding local residents the sign-up period for health care coverage under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) is now open in Illinois.

“The Affordable Care Act opened the doors for health care coverage to tens of thousands of Illinoisans through the Get Covered Illinois marketplace and Medicaid expansion,” Buckner said. “By using the Get Covered Illinois marketplace, local residents can seek affordable and quality health coverage, explore financial assistance options and determine whether they qualify for Medicaid.”

Get Covered Illinois works with Healthcare.gov to offer a range of health insurance plans for local residents that cover preventative care and wellness care in addition to covering prescription drugs, pregnancy care, mental health care, emergency services and pediatric care including vision and dental. Additional mandatory services include coverage of hospital stays, breastfeeding, birth control and laboratory tests. Under some plans, adults can also access vision and dental insurance.

The sign-up period for health care plans that cover the 2021 calendar year is open through Dec. 15 at GetCoveredIllinois.gov. At Get Covered Illinois residents can find answers to frequently asked questions, connect to resources for one-on-one assistance selecting a plan and review financial assistance and tax credit options. The Get Covered Illinois help line is available to assist residents in English and Spanish at 866-311-1119.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has once again demonstrated the need for quality, affordable health care access for every person in our community,” Buckner said. “Get Covered Illinois goes a long way toward providing affordable health care for every person and as the legislature convenes soon for fall session, there is more work to do to ensure that every person can access quality health coverage.”