What You Should Know About Covered California
Photo Credit: Covered California
St. Joseph’s Hospital is out to help the surrounding community learn more about the Covered California health plan going into effect in 2014. Many Californians without health coverage through their employers will be able to purchase it online using the Covered California website as the state’s health insurance exchange program.
Earlier this month, St. Joseph’s released a fantastic Q & A that will help each California resident to properly understand what the program is about and the different coverage offered.
St. Joseph’s Health System Says:
Q – When will I be able to enroll in Covered California?
A – Starting in October 2013 each resident will be able to apply for coverage under health plans such as HMO’s and PPO’s. These plans also allow users to apply for tax credits to help pay for insurance premiums. Health coverage started on January 1, 2014 and needs to be applied for by MARCH 31, 2014.
Q – What type of plans will be offered?
A – Four main types are offered – bronze, silver, gold, platinum – where coverage and premiums range in price and also benefits. The higher the plan, the lower the out of pocket coverage becomes.
Q – Does the exchange take the place of Medi-Cal?
A – No, Medi-Cal is a different plan and is generally less expensive than the exchange for an individual of family however you must be eligible for Medi-Cal to apply for that type of coverage.
Q – How much will people pay if they don’t have health insurance?
A – Citizens and legal residents will be required to have coverage or pay a penalty. Some people will be exempt, including those who are uninsured for less than three months or who would have to pay more than 8 percent of their household income for premiums.
Q – What are the essential benefits health plans must provide in 2014?
A – Physician and other ambulatory patient services, emergency services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, mental health and substance abuse services, prescription drugs, rehabilitative services and devices, laboratory services, preventative and wellness services and chronic disease management, oral care and vision.
Q – How can I find out more information on Covered California?
A – You can go to the Covered California website at www.coveredca.com
Thank you to St. Joseph’s Health System for giving us the insider tips on coverage offered through Covered California. Here at Remland Insurance we are committed to helping your family or business navigate through this ever-changing insurance we call “health care coverage.”
Give Remland Insurance a call today for help or to obtain a quote on new California insurance coverage
Remland Insurance
636 E. Chapman Ave.
Orange, CA 92866
(714) 532-3341