OPEN ENROLLMENT IS HERE!

Did you know that health insurance is now more accessible than ever? The Open Enrollment period is happening right now and most people who sign up are eligible to receive health plans that are low-cost or even free! Enroll by January 15th for peace of mind that you can get health care when you need it. For D.C., Maryland, and Virginia residents, please contact Ms. Sosseh Prom at sosseh@africans.us or 202-834-3595 for more information. For residents in other states, please visit getcoveredamerica.org or localhelp.healthcare.gov to get free help in your area.


አማርኛالعربيةEnglishFrançaisትግርኛYoruba

 

 

Make sure you have everything you need to apply.

Medicaid and Marketplace applications may request different information from state to state, so make sure you have everything you need to enroll in a health insurance plan. Here's a general checklist:

 

Need help enrolling?

Need help enrolling in health insurance or finding out if you’re eligible? Certified Assistance Counselors and Navigators are available throughout D.C., Maryland and Virginia to help you sign up for insurance. You can also contact African Communities Together (ACT) to answer your questions and receive assistance with your Medicaid application.

Sosseh Prom
(202) 834-3595
sosseh@africans.us		 Makeda Seare
(202) 870-4926
makeda@africans.us

 

Need more information?

Watch the video below for more detailed information about Medicaid and Obamacare.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why should I sign up for healthcare coverage through Medicaid or the Marketplace?
Healthcare coverage through Medicaid or the Affordable Care Act Marketplace gives you and your family peace of mind knowing that you have access to free or low-cost medical care when you need it.
What is covered under Medicaid and Marketplace insurance?
Coverage varies from state to state, but most Medicaid and Marketplace insurance plans cover healthcare services such as doctors visits, preventative care, prescriptions, mental health services, eye care, dental, and much more.
I'm unemployed. Can I still get health insurance?
Yes! Medicaid and the Marketplace are specifically designed to assist those experiencing financial hardship.
Are noncitizens eligible for coverage?
Some noncitizens are eligible for full benefits, while others may only be eligible for emergency services. However, there may be other options available for those who do not qualify for coverage under Medicaid or the Marketplace. If you find yourself ineligible, please contact us for more information about these alternative programs.
Will getting health insurance affect my immigration status? Will I be considered a "public charge"?
As of March 9, 2021, past public charge regulations are no longer in effect. Now, individuals can access healthcare assistance programs without fear of it affecting their chances of becoming a lawful permanent resident.
Can I apply for health insurance for my family?
Yes, you can! Regardless of your own citizenship status, you can apply for coverage for your family.
How long do I have to apply?
You can sign up for Medicaid at any time of the year, but open enrollment for Marketplace coverage only lasts from November 1 to January 15 in Virginia; January 16 in Maryland; and January 31 in D.C. However, you may be able to apply for Marketplace coverage outside of the open enrollment period if you encounter special life changes such as:
 
  1. A change in your household size (ex: the birth of a child)
  2. Moving to a new home in a different zip code
  3. Losing your healthcare coverage
  4. Changes to your immigration status that make you a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident.

 

Helpful Resources

D.C. Information

Maryland Information

Virginia Information

 

Upcoming Events

January 13: D.C. Healthcare Enrollment Assistance; 5pm - 8pm Book Appointment

January 15: D.C. Healthcare Enrollment Assistance; 9am -12pm Book Appointment

January 15: Last day for open enrollment in Maryland and Virginia

January 31: Last day for open enrollment in D.C.

 

Have you experienced barriers to healthcare? We want to hear from you!

A variety of factors can contribute towards lack of coverage, and we want to change that. If you or a loved one have experienced difficulty obtaining healthcare coverage, please take a few minutes to complete this survey. Responses shall remain confidential and anonymous, and will strictly be used to determine the barriers to healthcare that immigrants face.

 

Join us to raise a powerful new African voice for progress!