Pennsylvanians Encouraged To Shop Around for Health Coverage

Pennsylvanians are being urged to review their health insurance coverage ahead of Affordable Care Act open enrollment on Nov. 1. Experts said higher federal premiums could make shopping around especially important this year.

Grace McHale, community outreach manager for the Pennsylvania Health Access Network, said people renewing coverage or enrolling through the Pennie marketplace should compare plans to find the best fit for their needs. She added recent federal cuts to healthcare will affect prices this year as they did last year but they do not expect to see as significant an increase.

"The Pennsylvania Insurance Department did come out and quote that they believe there will be about a 15.9% increase in the individual market," McHale pointed out.

She acknowledged, however, the figure is an average, and increases can vary significantly based on plan type, region or individual or family circumstances.

She noted they continue to see consumers opt for lower-level plans and the state marketplace, Pennie, is still seeing a 30% increase in enrollment in bronze plans. Open enrollment for Affordable Care Act plans goes until Jan. 15. To get coverage starting Jan. 1, you have to enroll by Dec. 15.

McHale noted the network operates a live helpline where they answer thousands of phone calls from across Pennsylvania. She added the hotline staffs seven full-time enrollment navigators Monday through Friday during normal business hours. The trained navigators also help people enroll in Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program.

"We are certified Pennie Assisters, which means we are trained and certified through the Pennsylvania Insurance Department to walk folks through the process of enrolling, applying and enrolling in the health insurance marketplace," McHale explained.

Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer for UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, a primary care physician, suggested health consumers take advantage of annual checkups and preventive care.

"Catching something early costs less. Not only is it better for your physical health, it's also better for your financial health to make sure that you're getting that prevention and screening," Randall emphasized.

Research shows preventive care can help catch complications early, boost medication adherence and help patients make lifestyle changes to stop conditions from getting worse.

In Pennsylvania, around four in 10 adults live with at least two or more chronic conditions, according to the Chronic Care Policy Alliance.