Less Than a Week Left to Sign Up for Obamacare: County

The Will County Health Department issued this news release:

Monday, December 23, is the new deadline for those who want to receive health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) on January 1, 2014.

The Will County Health Department has four specially trained Navigators to assist, answer questions and work with Will County residents on enrollment free of charge. To reach a Health Department health insurance Navigator, call 815-727-5990. All who enroll by December 23, will have affordable health insurance coverage beginning in the new year.

"We want to make sure everyone is made aware of the resources available to them," according to Will County Health Department Executive Director John Cicero. "We can help anyone interested in a health insurance plan to navigate the process and get enrolled. This is a great opportunity to start 2014 with comprehensive health coverage."

Under the Affordable Care Act, thousands of Will County residents who were previously unable to get insurance can now receive coverage that includes preventive services free of charge. Plans include a cap on out-of-pocket costs, no lifetime or yearly dollar limit on coverage and no exclusions on the basis of pre-existing conditions.

Federal subsidies based on income are also available. Those who miss the December 23 deadline will still be able to enroll in the plan of their choice through March 30, 2014.

Health Department Navigators have had face-to-face contact with nearly 1,000 area residents seeking health insurance information since October 1. Navigators have taken 2,000 calls from area residents and have worked to educate 176 local stakeholders so they can efficiently refer clients and consumers. Navigators have also participated in more than 25 health insurance presentations and 15 additional community awareness events across the county.

All health insurance enrollment questions should be directed to 815-727-5990, or emailed to info@willcountyhealth.org. Persons wishing to enroll on their own should visit www.getcoveredillinois.gov.