YRMC offers assistance on health insurance enrollment

As the end of the enrollment period for marketplace insurance comes closer, those who need assistance with the process can find help at Yuma Regional Medical Center.

YRMC will be available to provide assistance with health care related questions and enrollment during the evening and weekend hours by appointment.

According to YRMC’s news release, residents who wish to purchase insurance through the federal government’s Health Insurance Marketplace have a shorter period of time to do so this year.

“This year, the current open enrollment period is only 45 days, much shorter than previous years,” said Amada Lorona, patient access director at YRMC, in a statement. “For your future, health and well being, it is important to make health insurance enrollment a priority.”

YRMC’s has Certified Application Counselors who are available to assist in the enrollment process in both English and Spanish. The hospital has also extended its hours for enrollment assistance to evenings and Saturdays.

As a reminder, YRMC officials noted as part of the Affordable Care Act, all citizens are required to have health insurance or pay a fine. The 2017 penalty fees are as follows: • $695 per adult • $347.50 per child • Up to $2,085 per household or two-and-a-half percent of a family’s yearly household income, whichever is greater.

It is noted by YRMC officials that although the enrollment period for Marketplace is from Nov. 1 through Dec. 15, Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) and Kids Care registration is open year-round.

Legal residents with low annual incomes and who live in the state of Arizona may be eligible for AHCCCS. Additionally, applicants are no longer required to have children under the age of 18 to qualify, the release showed.

For more information on the state program, visit www.healthearizonaplus. gov or call 1-855-432-7585.

YRMC staff will be assisting community members with AHCCCS and Kids Care enrollment during the extended service hours as well. Materials and information needed to enroll include date of birth, Social Security number, proof of income and proof of residency.

To make an appointment for assistance with YRMC, call (928) 336-7011.