Ron Bliss: This year, those denied Medicaid or Nevada check-up can get plans on federal marketplace

Though the Open Enrollment period ended Feb. 15, some can still get health plans on the Federal Marketplace – if they have a qualifying life event. That includes a number of occurrences, but an important one has been added this year.

Last year, simply applying for Medicaid or Nevada Check-up and being denied was not considered a life-changing event in Nevada. But on the Federal Marketplace, which is being used by Nevadans this year, it is considered a life-changing event.

If that happens, those denied can come to us at the Affordable Healthcare Pros at 2307 N. Carson Street in Carson City and apply for a plan on the Federal Marketplace.

According to the Health Markeplace: “If you enroll in a private health plan, you may be able to get premium tax credits and other savings that make coverage more affordable. This will depend on your household size and income.

“If your state agency determines that you or someone in your household isn’t eligible for Medicaid or CHIP, you’ll get a notice that explains this.

“In most cases, the state will send your information to the Marketplace in a secure transaction. The Marketplace will send you a notice explaining how to submit an application for private insurance that’s been pre-filled with the information you gave the state agency.’’

Other qualifying life events include:

Getting married or divorced

Having a child, adopting a child, or placing a child for adoption.

Having a change in income.

Getting health coverage through a job or a program like Medicare or Medicaid.

Changing your place of residence.

Having a change in disability status.

Gaining or losing a dependent.

Becoming pregnant.

Experiencing other changes that may affect your income and household size.

Have a change in tax filing status; change of citizenship or immigration status; incarceration or release from incarceration; change in status as an American Indian/Alaska Native or tribal status; correction to name, date of birth, or Social Security number.

Businesses can also do a group plan for their employees any time during the year. If that happens, anyone on a Health Marketplace plan must take the offer of coverage from the employer, if cost of their premium is no more than 9.5 percent of their income. If it is not, that will be allowed to stay on their Health Marketplace plan.

Also, some carriers have extended their deadlines for signing up to Feb. 28. They offer plans that are not part of ObamaCare and do not include subsidies. Please check with us for a list of which carriers have extended their deadlines and how you can apply.

Ron Bliss is a former sports writer who has been selling health insurance for five years. Affordable Healthcare Pros is located at 2307 North Carson Street in Carson City. Those who need help with health plans – on and off the Marketplace or Medicare supplements – can contact them at 775-450-6769, 775-450-6867 or 775-450-7754. Bliss can also be reached at 775-224-7169. He is certified for Covered California, as well as the Nevada Health Link.