How the ACA Improves Health Insurance Accessibility in Missouri
The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has revolutionized health insurance in Missouri by improving accessibility, affordability, and quality. One of the key goals of the ACA is to ensure that more people have access to healthcare coverage, especially those who were previously uninsured or underinsured. In this article, we’ll dive into how the ACA has expanded health insurance options in Missouri and made it easier for residents to access the care they need.
Medicaid Expansion in Missouri
One of the most significant changes brought about by the ACA is the expansion of Medicaid, a state and federally funded program that provides health coverage for low-income individuals and families. As of 2021, Missouri opted to expand Medicaid to cover adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level (FPL). This expansion means that hundreds of thousands of Missourians who were previously ineligible for Medicaid can now access affordable healthcare.
Medicaid expansion has greatly benefited individuals who previously fell into the “coverage gap,” where they earned too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid but too little to afford private health insurance. With expanded coverage, more Missourians can now access essential healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and mental health services.
Health Insurance Marketplaces
Another key feature of the ACA is the creation of health insurance marketplaces (also called exchanges) where individuals can shop for health plans. In Missouri, the Health Insurance Marketplace is available through HealthCare.gov, where individuals and families can compare plans, find out if they qualify for subsidies, and apply for coverage.
Health Insurance Marketplace plans provide comprehensive coverage and must include essential health benefits such as preventive care, mental health services, maternity care, and prescription drugs. Depending on your income, you may qualify for subsidies that lower your monthly premiums and reduce out-of-pocket costs.
Consumer Protections Under the ACA
The ACA introduced a number of important consumer protections that have made it easier for Missourians to obtain and keep health insurance. Some key protections include:
Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: Insurance companies can no longer deny coverage or charge higher premiums to individuals with pre-existing conditions. This is a major benefit for people who have chronic illnesses or previous medical conditions.
No Lifetime or Annual Limits: The ACA eliminated lifetime and annual coverage limits, so you no longer have to worry about running out of coverage if you need extensive medical care.
No Gender Discrimination: Health insurance companies are prohibited from charging higher premiums based on gender, so men and women pay the same rates for coverage.
These protections ensure that individuals and families in Missouri can access the care they need without facing discrimination or financial barriers.
How to Get Help with ACA Enrollment
If you’re unsure about which plan to choose or need assistance enrolling in an ACA health plan, Riverside Insurance Professionals is here to help. Our licensed agents are knowledgeable about the health insurance marketplace and can guide you through the process of applying for coverage. We’ll help you understand your options and assist in selecting the plan that’s right for you.
Contact Us
At Riverside Insurance Professionals, we’re dedicated to helping you navigate the ACA process and find affordable coverage. Feel free to reach out with any questions about ACA health insurance in Missouri:
Phone: (573) 535-6044
Email: Jennifer@RiversideInsuranceProfessionals.com
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Visit HealthCare.gov for more information about ACA coverage options.