The second Marketplace enrollment period came to a close in February of this year. Since then, hospitals, insurance navigators and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have begun measuring the impact of their enrollment efforts. While over 11 million people have enrolled through the Marketplace nationwide – including over 234,000 in Ohio – understanding how consumers gained access to Marketplace insurance plans was a central focus of the meeting. 

Regional Director Falk shared details about Marketplace enrollment efforts and up-to-date statistics for the Midwest region. Following the update, members presented hospital-specific information and reflected on best practices for enrolling the uninsured in Northeast Ohio. Bill Ryan, president and CEO, commented, “Ohio is not a homogenous state. What works in Northwest and Southeast Ohio may not work in Northeast Ohio.” He continued, “Historically, Northeast Ohio has a lower number of uninsured residents because we have a higher rate of residents enrolled in Medicaid. The question is, how can we connect the uninsured who qualify for a Marketplace plan when they walk through our hospital doors?”

After identifying best practices for Medicaid and Marketplace enrollment efforts, the conversation shifted to future efforts to connect Northeast Ohio residents to care. While Medicaid enrollment is ongoing and can be accessed at any point during the year, Marketplace enrollment occurs only once per year. The 2016 open enrollment period will begin on Nov. 1, 2015 and end on Jan. 31, 2016. Hospital members and Regional Director Falk agreed that open lines of communication between providers and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is ultimately the best tactic to ensure Northeast Ohio residents who qualify for Marketplace insurance find plans that suit their needs. 

For more information about The Center’s involvement with Medicaid and Marketplace enrollment efforts, please contact Tony Gutowski, public policy development manager, at 216.255.3610 or via email.