It remains as important as ever for Michigan residents to secure health care coverage for themselves and their families.

For those without insurance through their employer or through state or federal programs, that means finding coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

This year, Michiganders can choose from 233 health plans in the Marketplace — 59 more than last year. And, thanks to actions by Congress and newly reelected Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, there are additional protections in place to keep premiums low this year and beyond.

CHOOSING THE RIGHT INSURANCE

To protect yourself from medical debt, health care plans should avoid high out-of-pocket costs, like high deductibles and high coinsurance. Recent research by Consumers for Quality Care showed not only that high out-of-pocket costs were the top concern for Michigan residents, but that 51% of Michiganders have delayed care at some point because of high out-of-pocket costs.

It can be difficult to predict what your out-of-pocket costs will be. Plans with higher deductibles often have lower premiums up front, making them an attractive option for consumers trying to lower their monthly bills. But, as tempting as those plans may be, they increase your risk of having to pay higher out-of-pocket costs later. One health emergency or unexpected illness could leave you in major medical debt.

That’s why it’s important to have an understanding of the different parts of your health care plan — your deductible, premiums, copays and coinsurance. Ask a navigator if you have questions about what you might end up owing out of pocket for doctor’s visits, prescription drugs, and visits to the hospital.

A few key points to remember when signing up for coverage:

∫ Don’t miss the deadline. Enrollment began on Nov. 1 and ends on Jan. 15. If you want coverage no later than Jan. 1, you must enroll by Dec. 15.

∫ No one can be denied or charged more because of a pre-existing condition.

∫ Coverage may be more affordable than you think. Shop around, and don’t allow yourself to be passively auto-renewed on a previous policy. Switching to a new plan could save you some money.

GRANTS SUPPORT NAVIGATOR PROGRAMS

Michigan recently received a $4 million federal grant to support health care navigator programs.

Trained navigators provide residents with information on what coverage they’re eligible for, how to sign up, and how to renew. In addition to open enrollment in the Marketplace, those navigators can support Michiganders signing up for Medicaid and MIChild, also known as the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). To find support near you, visit LocalHelp.Healthcare.gov.

Federal and state officials also are working together to make health care more affordable in Michigan.

The American Rescue Plan provided premium tax credits in 2021 and 2022 for signups in Marketplace plans. Those tax credits boosted enrollment to record highs and saved 260,000 Michiganders an average of $800 each year.

Thankfully, Congress passed the Inflation Reduction Act earlier this year, which extended those tax credits through 2025. The result is that 271,000 Michiganders are going to benefit from that extension. Families with incomes between 100% and 150% of the federal poverty level may have premiums as low as $0, and a vast majority of people will be able to find a plan with low premiums.

Those subsidies will push things even further in the right direction by encouraging more people — including healthier individuals — to sign up for coverage. The more healthy people sign up for coverage, the more affordable the Marketplace becomes for everyone.

DO YOUR RESEARCH, AND SIGN UP

Finding quality, affordable health care while also limiting out-of-pocket costs and the potential for medical debt should be everyone’s goal. We are thankful to our elected leaders for working hard to help Michigan residents do that this open enrollment season.

Residents can sign up for Health Insurance Marketplace coverage and review your options at healthcare.gov or by calling 800-318-2596. Additional tips for signing up can be found at michigan.gov/difs and healthinsurance.org.

We can’t take our health for granted, so we urge everyone who needs health care coverage for 2023 to sign up through the Marketplace or explore government options.

Be diligent, do your research, and find the best plan for you and your loved ones before the enrollment period ends.

Alex Rossman is external affairs director at the Michigan League for Public Policy.