Learn ABCs of ACA Oct. 1 at Arcada Theater in St. Charles

Submitted by VNA Health Care

Kane County Women in Government, the Arcada Theater, and VNA Health Care are co-sponsoring a free event, “The ABCs of ACA” to educate the public on the importance of the Affordable Care Act and what to expect on Oct. 1 when open enrollment begins.

It will be held from 6:30 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 26, at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles.

To kick off the evening, a panel of speakers from the state of Illinois and the local area, including David Gill, Assistant Director, Illinois Department of Public Health, and Cheryl O’Donoghue, Vice President of Human Resources and Marketing at VNA Health Care, will explain how easy it will be to shop for health insurance and access related benefits such as tax credits to help pay the monthly premium.

Special guest Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon, a supporter of the Affordable Care Act, will also speak. Following the brief presentations, there will be a free screening of the movie “Sicko” directed by Michael Moore. After the movie, the audience may ask questions and participate in a moderated discussion.

The event is open to anyone who desires to learn how the Affordable Care Act might benefit them or their family.

“I strongly encourage women to attend this informative event,” states Nadia Daley, founder of Kane County Women in Government, a nonprofit organization with the mission to support women who wish to pursue elected office. “The Affordable Care Act will make a huge difference in their lives and livelihood by providing affordable health insurance and removing one of the major barriers to accessing health care.”

VNA Health Care is the recipient of three grants to help people enroll in Medicaid or obtain insurance through the Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace, as appropriate. As a grant recipient, VNA is charged with educating the public about and providing fair and impartial information concerning Medicaid eligibility and qualified health plans available through the Illinois Health Insurance Marketplace, premium tax credits, and cost-sharing reduction payments and will facilitate enrollment in qualified health plans and Medicaid.

“Beginning Oct. 1, a team of Illinois assisters, employed and trained by VNA, will be ready to help individuals learn if they might be eligible for the newly expanded Illinois Medicaid program or sign up for health insurance through the Illinois Marketplace,” says O’Donoghue. She encourages anyone who needs help sorting out information on the Affordable Care Act benefits to make an appointment with one of VNA’s Illinois assisters by calling (630) 892-4355.

Spanish translators will be available at the event. For more information, contact Nadia Daley at (847) 894-4478.