More Information Released on Health Insurance Marketplace

More information has been released about the health insurance exchange—now called the Marketplace. A redesigned Healthcare.gov website provides information, questionnaires and checklists to help individuals and businesses prepare for the individual coverage mandate taking effect January 1, 2014 and the employer shared responsibility provisions taking effect in 2015.

A recent study shows that 59% of Americans do not know that health care reform is a law, and that it is being implemented. As an employer, you are in a position to keep your employees informed about the upcoming changes. In fact, employers will be required to distribute written notices about the health insurance Marketplaces to all employees by October 1, 2013. You can find example notices from the Department of Labor here.

Here are some quick facts about the new Marketplace:

* The Marketplace presents individuals with a view of all their options and allows them to enroll in plans that cover a core set of benefits called essential health benefits (including emergency services, prescription drugs and maternity care)
* Open enrollment is scheduled to begin October 1, 2013
* Insurance plans in the Marketplace are offered by private companies
* The Marketplace is run by either state or federal governments
* Individuals may qualify for subsidized coverage through the Marketplace, depending on their financial situation

The new Marketplace is just one of many changes that will affect your organization, your employees and your benefits structure. Learn more about health care reform’s impact to your business: check out our health care reform resources page.