March 31st really is the deadline for Affordable Care Act coverage, says Decorah insurance agent

President Obama has announced that after March 31st individual consumers will NOT be able to purchase health insurance coverage until the Marketplace (www.healthcare.gov) reopens on November 15th.  The only exception to this rule will be those who qualify for a Special Enrollment Period.

Decorah independent insurance agent Brian Huinker of Midwest Group Benefits is recommending everyone select their plans early to avoid what is expected to be a last minute rush to enroll.

"While the website works better than when it launched, additional website delays will likely be seen as everyone tries to secure coverage these last few weeks of the open enrollment period," Huinker explained.

"We're unfortunately hearing horror stories about individuals who simply chose the cheapest plan – not knowing that by doing so they were limiting their network, meaning the doctor they were used to seeing was no longer covered by their new plan."  "Choosing the right plan comes down to more than price and we're here to educate clients on the networks and choose the option that will work best for them in their specific area," said Huinker.

After March 31st, individuals will only be able to enroll or change their health insurance coverage if they have a qualifying life event, such as getting married, having or adopting a child, permanently moving to a new area that offers different health plan options, or losing other health coverage due to job loss, divorce, loss of Medicaid eligibility, etc.

Local health insurance agents can help you secure health insurance coverage before the March 31st deadline and answer any questions concerning qualifying life events for the Special Enrollment Period.