Holy Name Press Releases

ACA Health Insurance Enrollment Event Hosted At Holy Name Medical Center

Event held as HHS announces 65,215 people signed up for coverage in the first month of the Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment in New Jersey

November 30, 2016

Holy Name Medical Center [HNMC] hosted elected officials and US Department of Health and Human Services representatives yesterday to announce new Asian–American enrollment outreach initiatives through the hospital's Asian Health Services [AHS] Program. As a result of the ACA, The Asian–American uninsured rate has decreased from 18.3% in 2010 to 6.9% in 2015 nationally in Medicaid Expansion states, like New Jersey.

"The ACA has been extremely helpful in providing Asian and Pacific Islanders with affordable health insurance, but we must continue to build on these gains. We need to maintain our momentum in enrolling millions of Americans in coverage through the ACA, despite uncertainty in Washington," U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell said. "I consider the Asian Health Services at Holy Name an excellent partner in both enrolling people in health insurance coverage and helping them get the care they need once they have coverage."

Holy Name Medical Center helped more than 2,000 Asian and 500 Hispanic families get health insurance this year by assisting them in signing up for coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This is the fourth year bilingual hospital staff members –– through Holy Name's Asian Health Services and Familia y Salud program –– worked with federal navigators to assist uninsured or underinsured Americans get medical insurance, ensuring that a total of 7000 families are covered.

"Holy Name has become a national model in delivering culturally sensitive medical services for people of all traditions in the tri–state area," said Michael Maron, President and CEO of Holy Name Medical Center. "Part of this service is helping individuals and families bridge language and cultural barriers to get the health coverage they need, which will help build healthier communities and improve healthcare outcomes."

"With plans available for less than $75 per month in premiums, 2.1 million Americans, including 65,215 in New Jersey, have already selected coverage through HealthCare.gov, more than had signed up at this time last year," said Regional Department of Health and Human Services Executive Officer Dennis Gonzalez. "This is quality, affordable coverage, and now is the time to get signed up to meet the December 15th deadline for coverage that starts January 1st."

At this approximate date last year, 56,000 in New Jersey had been enrolled.

Five Facts about Open Enrollment in New Jersey:

1. Since Open Enrollment began on Nov. 1, 65,215 New Jersey consumers have selected a plan using the HealthCare.gov platform.


2. Coverage can be more affordable than you think. 54 percent of New Jersey Marketplace enrollees can find plans with a premium for less than $75 per month. Nationwide, about 8 out of 10 people who enroll in health coverage through HealthCare.gov qualify for financial help to make their monthly premiums more affordable.


3. Shopping for a better deal could save you money. For 2017, HealthCare.gov consumers in New Jersey could save an average of $557 annually in premiums for a plan in the same level of coverage by returning to shop. If you had coverage through HealthCare.gov for 2016, you should come back to update your information and compare your options for 2017.


4. It's easier than ever to find a plan that meets your needs and budget. This year, when consumers come to HealthCare.gov, shoppers will find a stream-lined, user-friendly process. Comparing plans online or on mobile will be an intuitive, step-by-step process to click or swipe through. Simple, easy-to-understand presentation of plan features like cost-sharing and provider networks will help consumers find what works for them.


5. Help is available. Free, confidential help can be found in person or by phone.
   • Call 1-800-318-2596 for confidential assistance 24/7, in English or Spanish.
   
   
   • Visit HealthCare.gov and CuidadoDeSalud.gov.
   
   
   • Free in-person help is also available in your community, visit https://localhelp.healthcare.gov/#intro to find a listing of enrollment centers and events in New Jersey.