Biden Praises Surge in Affordable Care Act Sign-Ups
TL/DR –
The White House reports strong enrollment numbers through the Affordable Care Act (ACA), with 300,000 new customers and 1.6 million overall signings in the first week of Open Enrollment, a 50% increase from the previous year. This rise is a result of the pandemic and the extension of pandemic-era enhanced subsidies through the Inflation Reduction Act. Additionally, the millions who were disenrolled from Medicaid have an expanded window to enroll in ACA plans until July 31, 2024, and those already enrolled may be automatically re-enrolled in higher-tier plans due to a policy change.
Strong Enrollment Numbers Reported for ACA: 300,000 New Sign-ups in First Week
The Affordable Care Act (ACA), famously known as Obamacare, is witnessing a surge in enrollment numbers as reported by the White House, with 300,000 new customers already opting for plans within a week of the enrollment commencement. President Biden acknowledged this increase in a recent post on X, formerly known as Twitter, stating, “In the first week of Open Enrollment, 1.6 million people have signed up at HealthCare.gov, including 301,000 new consumers — a 50% increase from the previous year.”
Increasing Healthcare Coverage amid Pandemic
HealthCare.gov has seen a steady rise in its enrollment rates annually since 2020. With the ongoing pandemic, an increased need for health insurance is observed and this year’s enrollment numbers are anticipated to surpass those of last year’s 16.3 million. The Inflation Reduction Act, extending pandemic-inspired enhanced subsidies till 2025, has further made plans more affordable and accessible.
Savings and Affordable Plans
The impressive enrollment numbers echo the successful efforts of the administration in reducing health care costs. As per a White House official, “Thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act, HealthCare.gov consumers are saving an average of $800 per person annually on health insurance premiums, and 4 out of 5 shoppers can find a plan for under $10 per person monthly.”
Efforts to Boost ACA Enrollment
Several measures are underway to encourage further ACA enrollment during this year’s sign-up period. For individuals who have been disenrolled from Medicaid following the termination of the COVID-19 public health emergency, they are given until July 31, 2024, to enroll in ACA plans. Additionally, many existing enrollees may find themselves automatically upgraded to higher-tier plans this year, resulting from a policy shift that enables HealthCare.gov to assess if those on Bronze plans qualify for cost-sharing Silver level plans.
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