A Reminder from MSAA – 2019 Health Insurance Deadlines Are Approaching

The Multiple Sclerosis Association of America (MSAA) would like to remind you of two important deadlines that are quickly approaching in December.

Important deadlines

·  Now through December 15, 2018, you can enroll for 2019 coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Health Insurance Marketplace by visiting www.healthcare.gov. If you do not have health insurance through a job, Medicare, or Medicaid, the Marketplace can help you get covered.

·  For individuals who have Medicare or are seeking to apply, please note that open enrollment began October 15th and will run until December 7, 2018. You do not need to sign up for Medicare each year, but you can review your coverage and make adjustments if necessary to ensure your insurance needs are being met.

·  Coverage for both Medicare and the Health Insurance Marketplace plans begins on January 1, 2019.

Copay assistance cards and coupons

One very important factor to keep in mind when reviewing health care coverage is to consider whether you use a drug manufacturer copay assistance card/coupon to help cover the cost of your medication. If you do, when choosing which insurance plan to select, be sure to read the fine print or call your insurer to ask if the copay assistance card/coupon will continue to count toward your deductible and maximum out-of-pocket limit. There are a number of insurance plans that will no longer count copay assistance toward your deductible or maximum out-of-pocket limit. This can end up costing you or your family thousands of dollars in unexpected costs.

Health insurance guide

If you would like to know more about your health insurance options, we encourage you to visit MSAA’s online My Health Insurance Guide. This is an important time, so review your coverage options to ensure you are selecting the right plan for you.