2018 Open Enrollment is Nov 1st - Dec 15th 2017

Open enrollment for individual/family medical plans is November 1st through December 15th 2017.  New enrollments and renewals must be completed during this time for a January 1st start date.  In the past, open enrollment was extended, allowing for start dates in February and March.  That is no longer allowed unless you are eligible for a special enrollment period.  

If you have a grandfathered plan ending at the end of 2017, you may be eligible for an SEP.

BCBSNC has consolidated their ACA offerings for 2018.  While they are still offering different networks depending on your county of residence, the metallic levels have changed to four options.

• Bronze 6650
• Silver 7000
• Silver 4000
• Gold 2500

The number in the name is your deductible.  Deductibles go into play when you have diagnostic services like MRIs, X Rays, special blood panels, or a hospital stay.

The out of pocket maximum, which is established by the government and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, has increased from $7150 in 2017 to $7350 in 2018 for in network charges.  Your out of pocket maximum includes your co-payments, prescription costs, and deductible.  In other words, if you have an in network hospital stay for a week, the most you'll pay, according to the law, is $7350 for 2018.  Once you reach that, as long as you make your premium payment, your carrier will pay the rest of your in network covered medical expenses for the rest of 2018.  [*Covered medical expenses must be considered a medical necessity and prior approval may be required.]

However, your deductible and your out of pocket maximum may be lowered considerably based on your income.  I can help you find out if you're eligible for these additional cost share reductions.  

If you have an HSA (Health Savings Account) eligible plan, your out of pocket is capped at $6650 hence the name "Bronze 6650" above.

Please feel free to reach out to me with questions.  I'm happy to help you navigate your options.

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