How To Find Help Understanding Coverage Options

With all of the new coverage options and requirements under the Affordable Care Act, most people will need some help understanding their coverage options and responsibilities under the Affordable Care Act. Fortunately, the law creates a number of programs designed to provide help online, over the phone, and in person.

• To find assistance from trained professionals near you, go to https://localhelp.healthcare.gov/.
• Individuals can also call the 24-hour call center at 1-800-318-2596.
• Small businesses can call 1-800-706-7893 from Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST. In addition, the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the advocacy group Small Business Majority are conducting weekly webinars for small business owners to learn the basics of the Affordable Care Act and SHOP.
• The Kaiser Family Foundation and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities also offer helpful Frequently Asked Questions for those interested in learning more about the law.

For more information on this topic in From the Green Room, see “Raising the Curtain on the Affordable Care Act” and “Buyer Beward: Dancers and the ACA.”

Sarah Dash is on faculty at the Georgetown University Health Policy Institute. Previously, she aspired to a professional ballet career, but thinks it is better that you are the ones onstage. It is a privilege to share information about the Affordable Care Act with the Dance/USA audience.