医療保険取引所 (Exchange)

As part of the Affordable Care Act, the government has set up Health Insurance Marketplaces (also called Exchanges) where health insurance companies can sell their plans. Some of these Marketplaces are run by a state, some by the federal government, and some by both working together.

The marketplaces are another way for people to buy health insurance. You can shop online, by mail, by phone or in person with trained helpers called Navigators – or with insurance brokers or agents.

There is a set time period each year (called Open Enrollment) when you can compare and select a health insurance plan. The next open enrollment period is November 1, 2015 – January 31, 2016, for plans that begin in January 2016. After the open enrollment period ends, you will not be able to change your coverage or buy a plan through the Marketplace unless you have a qualifying life event (such as getting married or having a baby), until the next annual open enrollment period.

In the individual marketplace, you can:

• Choose from a range of insurance plans at different costs and levels of coverage.
• Compare plans side by side and use an online calculator to find out what each one will cost.
• Complete an application for coverage to find out if you qualify for a government tax credit or subsidy to help pay your premium.
• Enroll in a plan.

To find out about your own state's Marketplace or Exchange, visit Healthcare.gov.