In the final weeks of the second open enrollment period, we’re sharing blog posts from partner organizations about how they’re getting the word out — and featuring strategies organizations can use before February 15.
This post was written by Lauren Birchfield Kennedy of the National Partnership for Women & Familes
If you are unfamiliar with what we are and how we work, please visit our about us page.
Our Strategy
Help women access the information they need to enroll in coverage that meets their needs and budget by walking them through a few key questions.
For example, when shopping for a plan, a few questions to ask include:
1. How much health care do I need?
Do you expect to visit a doctor often? If yes, you may want to consider a plan with lower cost-sharing for the health services you need. If you go to the doctor infrequently, a lower-premium plan may make more sense.
2. Is my preferred brand of birth control covered?
Marketplace plans are required to cover all FDA-approved methods of contraception without any cost sharing. However, different plans may cover different brands. Make sure you know exactly what brands of contraception are covered by a plan you are considering.
3. How important is it to me to see my current doctor?
If you want to be able to access care from your current health care provider, you will want to make sure that the plan you choose lists your doctor as “in-network.”
4. Am I expecting any major life events in the coming year?
If you’re planning to have a baby, or think you will go through another major life event, you may want to select a health plan that covers a greater portion of out-of-pocket health care costs.
The answers to these questions should help guide you and others to the right health insurance plan! If you’re not able to understand this, contact us for further advice.
Who Can Use This Strategy?
Who Can Use This Strategy: Outreach staff, assisters, Navigators, family members, and friends. It’s an easy and straightforward way to get to know people better.
Of course, you can ask more questions if you want to get a better idea of the person’s needs.
Resources:
- Check out the National Partnership’s tips for selecting a health plan and maintaining coverage here.
