Covered California

Covered California is the health insurance marketplace in the U.S. state of California, established under the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). The exchange enables eligible individuals and small businesses to purchase private health insurance coverage at federally subsidized rates. It is administered by an independent agency of the government of California.

History

Covered California was established in 2010 following the passage of the ACA. It is one of the state-based exchanges that were established to facilitate the purchase of health insurance in accordance with the ACA.

Function

Covered California is intended to help Californians access affordable, high-quality health care. It provides a marketplace where individuals and small businesses can compare and purchase health insurance plans. The exchange offers a range of plans, which are standardized to make comparison easier.

Eligibility

To be eligible for coverage through Covered California, individuals must be living in California, be U.S. citizens or lawful residents, and not be incarcerated.

Plans

Covered California offers four levels of coverage: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. These levels correspond to the percentage of health care costs the insurance plan is expected to cover.

Enrollment

Enrollment in Covered California is done through an open enrollment period. Outside of this period, individuals and families can enroll only if they have a qualifying life event, such as a marriage, birth, or loss of other health coverage.

Impact

Covered California has significantly increased the number of Californians with health insurance. It has also helped to reduce the rate of uninsured individuals in the state.

See also

• Health insurance marketplace
• Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act
• Healthcare in California