HealthCare.gov

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

HealthCare.gov is a health insurance exchange website operated under the United States federal government under the provisions of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA, often referred as 'Obamacare'), designed to serve the residents of the thirty-six U.S. states that opted not to create their own state exchanges.

Overview[edit | edit source]

The exchange assists individuals and small businesses in shopping for health insurance coverage. It provides information about health insurance options, eligibility for cost assistance, and eligibility for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). The website is also used to determine and grant eligibility for Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program, and tax credits that can lower the cost of health insurance premiums.

History[edit | edit source]

The website was launched on October 1, 2013. The first open enrollment period for HealthCare.gov lasted from October 1, 2013, to March 31, 2014. Subsequent open enrollment periods have occurred annually. The website has been the subject of controversy over its cost and functionality.

Functionality[edit | edit source]

The website functions as a comparison shopping marketplace for individuals to apply for health insurance and determine their eligibility for health programs like Medicaid, CHIP, or the possibility of receiving tax credits to reduce their insurance premium costs.

Criticism and Controversy[edit | edit source]

HealthCare.gov has faced criticism and controversy due to initial technical problems, issues with security, and disputes over its cost and overall impact on the healthcare industry.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

HealthCare.gov Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD