Hoyer Statement on the Beginning of the 2018 Open Enrollment Period
WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today on the first day of the 2018 open enrollment period, which continues until December 15:
“I encourage everyone currently enrolled in the Maryland Health Benefit Exchange, as well as those looking to enroll, to visit the Exchange during the 2018 open enrollment period,” said Congressman Hoyer. “The open enrollment period is the only time when any Marylander can enroll or make changes to their health insurance plan for 2018 in the Exchange. Nine in ten individuals enrolled in the Exchange qualify for financial assistance, so I urge all families in Maryland to double check the rates for their current plan and make sure it is still the best option for them.”
“Since the Affordable Care Act was enacted, hundreds of thousands of Marylanders have gained access to quality, affordable health care,” Congressman Hoyer continued. “The Affordable Care Act has allowed young people to stay on their parents’ insurance, significantly lowered the number of uninsured individuals in our state, prevented people with pre-existing conditions from facing discrimination from insurance companies, and helped seniors save millions of dollars on prescription drugs.”
“Despite efforts by Republicans in Congress and the Trump Administration to sabotage the law, I will continue to work with my colleagues to inform families about the open enrollment period,” continued Congressman Hoyer. “I urge Members from both parties to support bipartisan legislation to strengthen the Affordable Care Act, including the Alexander-Murray bill, to ensure every American has access to health care that is affordable for their family.”
Maryland consumers can apply for coverage online at MarylandHealthConnection.gov. Consumers can also download the “Enroll MHC” app to shop and apply for coverage on a mobile device. The app is available free in the App Store (iOS) and the Google Play Store (Android). Free in-person help to enroll is also available, and Marylanders can find assistance close to home by clicking here. Assistance is also available over the phone by calling toll-free 1-855-642-8572 (TTY: 1-855-642-8573) to reach the consumer support center. The deadline to sign up for coverage for 2018 is December 15. For more information on the Maryland Health Connection, click here.