Survey Reveals Confusion in California About ACA Insurance Coverage September 26, 2013 Covered California, News ACA, Affordable Care Act, Covered California, health insurance exchange 0 Three out of four California residents with modest incomes incorrectly believe that they are not eligible for subsidies to purchase health plans through the state insurance exchange or do not know if they qualify for federal assistance, according to a Kaiser Family Foundation survey. About 2,000 uninsured state residents from mid-July through the end of August, prior to expanded outreach efforts highlighting the exchanges under the Affordable Care Act. Confusion Among Undocumented Immigrants The survey found that 49% of undocumented immigrants living in the state believe that they might qualify for Medi-Cal under a program expansion and 43% expect to purchase a plan through the exchange. However, the ACA prohibits undocumented immigrants from purchasing health coverage through the health insurance exchanges created under the law, and such individuals already are barred from enrolling in Medi-Cal. Other Findings The survey found that 57% of respondents said that they have little financial security, while 64% said that they have forgone needed medical care because of cost concerns. Covered California Resource for Physicians SFMS will be hosting a series of educational luncheon sessions about Covered California in October. Specifically developed for physicians and other health care professionals, these sessions will educate the medical community on the basics of the California Health Insurance Exchange, patient eligibility/enrollment, and physician reimbursement/referral issues. Please visit the SFMS Events page for a list of upcoming events. Additionally, FAQ and informational guidelines for providers are being developed and will be posted to the SFMS website in October. Source: California Healthline, September 26, 2013. Comments are closed.
