Healthcare.gov

Healthcare.gov

Healthcare.gov is the health insurance exchange website operated by the U.S. federal government that allows Americans to shop for and enroll in affordable health insurance plans.
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Healthcare.gov: Shop Affordable Health Insurance Plans

Healthcare.gov is the official health insurance exchange website operated by the U.S. federal government, enabling Americans to compare and purchase affordable health insurance plans, with options for individuals, families, and small businesses.

What is Healthcare.gov?

Healthcare.gov is the health insurance marketplace operated by the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services that allows Americans to shop for and enroll in affordable health insurance plans. The website was launched in 2013 as a key component of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA or Obamacare) to provide a way for uninsured individuals and families to compare health insurance options and purchase health coverage.

Through Healthcare.gov, consumers can browse and compare 2021 health insurance plans including bronze, silver, gold and platinum plans offered by private insurance companies in their state and enroll in the plan that best fits their needs and budget. Subsidies and tax credits are available to reduce monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs for people with low to moderate incomes. The website also determines eligibility for free or low-cost coverage through Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).

In addition to providing a one-stop-shop for purchasing affordable health coverage, Healthcare.gov aims to educate consumers about health insurance and their options with tools to estimate costs and find local help. The website underwent significant technical upgrades after facing glitches early on and continues to expand enrollment options and accessibility.

Healthcare.gov Features

Features

  1. Online marketplace to shop, compare and enroll in health insurance plans
  2. Eligibility pre-screening and financial assistance/subsidies for qualifying individuals
  3. Ability to preview and estimate costs for available insurance plans
  4. Integration with Medicaid and CHIP for eligible applicants
  5. Account creation and management
  6. Mobile app available

Pricing

  • Free

Pros

Makes comparing and enrolling in health plans simpler

Provides subsidies to reduce premium costs for lower-income individuals

Expanded health insurance access and affordability

Available in English and Spanish

Cons

Technical issues and glitches especially during initial launch

Concerns about privacy and security of user data

Does not include all insurance plans available in a state

May still be difficult for some users to navigate


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