Millions of Marketplace Enrollees Have Tough Purchasing Decisions Ahead - An Online Tool Is Here to Help

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Dec 17, 2014, 02:20 ET

WASHINGTON, Dec. 17, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- With 25 percent more issuers participating in the health insurance marketplace this year, an expected 10.5 million enrollees will have more options and tougher decisions to make when shopping for a health plan. While many people enroll in silver and bronze plans with the lowest premium, for patients with regular health care needs, much of their annual spending on is also determined by the cost-sharing structure of the plan they select. The nation's leading patient advocacy organizations have created a free, online calculator to help people understand the plans available in their state.

The www.puttingpatientsfirst.net calculator was created by the National Health Council to help people gain a better understanding of their options in the health insurance marketplace and to find coverage that meets their individual health care and budget needs. The calculator illustrates how an individual's total annual health care spending can vary based on plan selection.

This is the only free, web-based calculator where people can enter their unique health usage information – including estimated number of doctor/specialist visits, hospital stays, and surgeries, and their prescription medications (both generics and brand drugs) – to see how their costs will vary depending on the different types of plans sold in their state.

The premiums in a person's cost report are based on actual 2015 marketplace premiums in the state. For people reporting household size and income details between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level, the premiums are reduced to reflect the application of possible tax credits.

Founded in 1920, the National Health Council (NHC) is the only organization that brings together all segments of the health community to provide a united and effective voice for the more than 133 million people living with chronic diseases and disabilities and their family caregivers. To learn more about the NHC, visit www.nationalhealthcouncil.org.

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SOURCE National Health Council