GEAR

Given the results of the national election, we know that many organizations focused on helping Georgians enroll in health coverage made available by the Affordable Care Act are uncertain about the future availability of coverage. So we thought it was important to take a moment to provide you with some things to remember and talking points you can use when speaking with Georgians who are worried about their coverage.

Things community organizations and enrollment assisters should keep in mind:

• Open enrollment for 2017 continues with the same deadlines for coverage in place for 2017. Georgians will have coverage through 2017.
• We do not expect a rapid change that would leave millions without coverage or care, and would hit the insurance industry and health care providers hard as well. One of the hallmarks of out American political system is the peaceful transition of power. Sweeping, overnight changes are not the norm in U.S. government.
• While we must wait for more details of the new administration’s health care plan, the president-elect’s campaign platform called for “repeal & replace.” As a candidate, he indicated that he wants every American to be covered.
• Increasing access to health care for all Georgians remains a core value for all of us who work in the health sphere. We will continue to advocate for consistent access to affordable preventive, primary, and specialty care for all.
• As people that see the benefits of the ACA and health coverage, we encourage you to work with consumers to share their stories. You can go here to complete the story collection form and someone from GHF will follow up.