Alaskans can enroll in the federal Health Insurance Marketplace through January but individuals covered under Moda Health only have until December 15 to switch policies.
Jessie Menkens with the Alaska Primary Care Association says she understands that both processes may be very confusing for Alaskans and they’ve set up ways to help.
Menkens: “We have a website, www.getcoveredalaska.org. We also facilitate a helpline for Alaskans, and that number is 1-844-PLANSAK, that translates to 1-844-752-6725.”
Moda Health announced this spring that they would not offer individual insurance for 2017 in Alaska, leaving Premera Blue Cross Blue Shield as the only company offering individuals plans in the state.
Each year fines have been implemented for uninsured Americans who decline the federally mandated healthcare. Menkens detailed this years fees:
Menkens: “If an individual determines they will not be covered for nine out of twelve months out of the year, then they would be looking at a fee of $695 per adult or 2.5 percent of one’s income, whichever one’s higher.”
Premiums on healthcare.gov were anticipated to rise by almost 25 percent before this period of open enrollment however some states are only reporting two to seven percent increases.
She says the rise in premiums for Alaskans depend on individuals’ healthcare needs.