Next Step in Affordable Care Act Rollout May Mean Different Things for Consumers According to the Texas Association of Health Underwriters

AUSTIN, Texas, Jan. 29, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- With the deadline for January enrollment of the Affordable Care Act now having passed, many consumers are considering the next steps in the rollout of the landmark health care legislation. For those who have not yet purchased a health plan, the next step will be selecting their coverage prior to the March 31 deadline, when the enrollment period for the year officially ends. For many who have purchased coverage, the next steps may involve addressing doctor or prescription issues with their new health plan. In some instances, those steps may involve considering how to rescind the health plan selection they have made.

"As countless Americans have discovered over the past few weeks, making the selection of the best coverage for their circumstances is a complex and sometimes overwhelming decision. Many Texans will face coverage options for the first time without realizing the impact of their decisions," said Mark Bellman, president of the Texas Association of Health Underwriters.

Bellman continued, "In the past, individuals have relied on their employer or insurance professionals to offer options for coverage. Now, as many consumers attempt to tackle this decision on their own, they are discovering an array of considerations that many do not fully understand."

While consumers are attempting to understand the details of co-pays, coinsurance and deductibles, many are learning the plan they purchased may not include the doctor they have seen for years. Some have also learned that medications they take regularly may not be covered. The out-of-pocket cost of those drugs or treatment from an out-of-network doctor can create a financial burden greater than the savings or other advantages of the new plan.

Bellman stated, "It may not be a bad thing if someone hasn't made a decision. It's not too late to enroll, and it's not too late to enlist a professional benefits adviser to help you make the right choices."

"Seeking the assistance of a nearby professional will not cost the consumer and will not add to the cost of a policy. It's essentially a free service to the purchaser," Bellman advised.

Individuals who have not purchased a health plan have until…Click Here to Download Full Press Release.

SOURCE Texas Association of Health Underwriters