In an effort to increase the pace with which individuals without employee benefits can obtain coverage, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services says that it's awarding the nation's approximately 1,160 health centers with more financial assistance so that they can handle the increased flow of applicants.
Kathleen Sebelius, HHS secretary, recently announced that $58 million would be distributed to health centers, most of which will go toward compensating assistance workers so that they can assist customers with the sign up and enrollment process.
"[These] awards build upon the efforts of health centers across the country as uninsured Americans gain health insurance coverage," said Sebelius. "This investment means that health centers can provide expanded assistance for people in communities nationwide looking for resources to help them understand their insurance options and enroll in affordable coverage."
Mary Wakefield, administrator for the Health Resources and Services Administration, added that while most people who apply for coverage are doing so through the state- and federal-based insurance exchange websites, the financial resources being made available is making it possible for more individuals to physically go to health centers so that they can secure a policy after meeting with a trained professional.
"Having more opportunities for face-to-face enrollment assistance from trusted resources at local health centers means that more people will get the help they need to sign up by the end of the open enrollment period on March 31, 2014," said Wakefield.
Recently, health insurance information firm HealthPocket determined what the average deductible is projected to be under plans purchased through the Affordable Care Act and the exchanges that are set up. The highest priced is a bronze plan, at nearly $5,100 for an individual, while the most affordable is a platinum plan at nearly $350.
