Special enrollment period offered for health care

The McHenry County Department of Health has announced open enrollment for health insurance has now ended; however, it is not too late for residents who qualify for a special enrollment period.

Individuals whose income meets the guidelines for Medicaid or experience a specific life event can qualify for health insurance through the Marketplace. Life events include loss of employer-based coverage, change in income or household size, move into McHenry County or Lake County, reached the age of 26 and no longer able to stay on parents' plan, or a change in immigration status.

Also, if you filed 2014 taxes, paid a penalty for being uninsured and want health care coverage, you may take advantage of a one-time enrollment period from March 15 to April 30. Licensed Navigators are available seven days a week and offer free assistance regarding both Marketplace and Medicaid plans. Call MCDH at (815) 334-4510 for more information.

A majority of Illinois residents using the Marketplace have qualified for tax credits to help lower the cost of health insurance premiums. Examples include:

• A single adult with no dependents earning up to $3,800 a month, and couples with a monthly income up to $5,200 a month may qualify for assistance through the Marketplace.

• Individuals whose income meets the guidelines for Medicaid can apply at any time during the year. A single adult earning less than $1,350 a month and couples earning up to $1,830 a month may qualify for free insurance.

If you are uninsured, are concerned about a tax penalty, want to file for a tax exemption, or would like to apply for health insurance, contact a licensed Navigator at (815) 334-4510.

Funding is made possible by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Enroll McHenry County is a partnership of Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital, Centegra Health System, Family Health Partnership Clinic, McHenry County Department of Health and Pioneer Center for Human Services.