TMH

According to the 2021 Census, 91.8 % of Americans have insurance of some kind. Of that 91.8%, 66% have private insurance while 35.7% are publicly insured. That public coverage is facilitated by the Affordable Care Act which expands access to insurance, helps Americans pay for their bills, and prohibits discrimination based on pre-existing conditions.

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Here's How You Get Covered Publicly:

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Step One: Check the Open Enrollment Dates

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Open Enrollment marks when you can enroll in, re-enroll in, or change health plans through the Health Insurance Marketplace. The minutia of these dates may vary state by state but November 1st to December 15 is fairly standard.

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Step Two: Head Over to HealthCare.gov

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Also known as the Health Insurance Marketplace, this is where you'll be able to apply for coverage & explore different insurance options. 

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Step Three: Make an Account & Apply

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Click the "Get Coverage" button. Pick your State from the scroll list & select the "Visit your state marketplace" or "Apply now" button. Depending on your state, you'll either be redirected to a state specific health marketplace e.g (Home - Maryland Health Connection) for the state of Maryland. Or you'll proceed to the "Create an account" page. Either way - make an account. After this you can fill out an application.

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HealthCare.gov has a PDF detailing how to fill out said application - Instructions to Help You Complete the Application for Health Coverage & Help Paying Costs (cms.gov)

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Step Four: Check Your Eligibility Result

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 So long as you are you live in the U.S, are a citizen or national, and are not incarcerated - you'll be eligible to use the Health Insurance Marketplace to find an insurance plan.

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Step Five: Browse & Pick a Plan!

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Go and Explore! There are a variety of plans available under the Affordable Care Act. Find the one best for you and enjoy your medical safety net.