Finding Health Coverage In Hawaii
Hawaiians are great about staying active and eating healthy, but that’s only half the battle when it comes to taking care of yourself. Most people think that health insurance is only good for protecting your finances from high medical bills, but it’s much more than that. Health insurance is an investment in your health by giving you access to tons of medical benefits including preventive services and primary care physicians. If you’re looking to enroll in health insurance in Hawaii, here’s how.
Hawaii Open Enrollment Dates
The Open Enrollment Period takes place annually, and is the time of year where the Obamacare marketplace and exchange is open for business. Hawaii is a participant in the federal marketplace, meaning that its Open Enrollment Period coincides with the federal dates. If you live in Hawaii, then your Open Enrollment will run through the following dates:
- November 1 - January 15
For some, the Hawaii’s health insurance marketplace will offer some of the cheapest and most affordable plans and policies. If you are living with any pre-existing or chronic health conditions, health insurance companies offering coverage through the exchange will not be able to deny you coverage, or even charge you a higher monthly premium. Hawaii’s marketplace is also where you can apply for government subsidized health coverage, although that is dependent on your income level.
Hawaii Health Insurance Quotes
If you’re one of the millions of Americans who makes too much money, then you may find yourself priced out of the marketplace since you may not qualify for subsidies. However, there is a growing trend of individuals and families turning to the private sector to find affordable coverage in Hawaii, and that may be your best option.
FirstQuote Health specializes in helping residents of the Aloha state find affordable health insurance quotes in Hawaii by taking the pain out of shopping. Plans and pricing varies by area, so all you have to do is enter your zip code to see what’s available by you. You can even talk to an experienced agent who can help point you in the right direction, and help you get enrolled in coverage as quickly as today.
Coverage From Hawaii’s Best Health Insurance Companies
If you are already covered and happy with your plan, or have a provider in mind, then an easy way to sign up for health insurance is by enrolling directly with one of Hawaii’s best health insurance companies. Some of the most popular options in the state include the following:
- Hawaii Medical
- Kaiser
- American International
However, before enrolling directly with a health insurance provider, remember to do your research. Everyone’s healthcare needs are different, which means what works for someone who’s had a good experience, may not work for you. A simple search online will show you what past and current members have to say about the company, or you can learn more through FirstQuote Health.
Is Health Insurance Mandatory In Hawaii?
As of 2019, health insurance in Hawaii is no longer mandatory for individuals and families. When the Affordable Care Act went into effect in 2014, it required all Americans to enroll in health insurance, or face a penalty come tax season through a piece of legislation known as the individual mandate. However, the mandate was controversial, and met with plenty of backlash from the GOP.
It came as no surprise that early on in Trump’s presidency, he signed an executive order that eliminated the individual mandate starting in 2019, a move that aimed to dismantle Obamacare. Although, some states, in effort to keep the Affordable Care Act and their marketplaces in tact, decided to implement their own versions of the individual mandate. Hawaii was not one of those states, but is currently considering creating their own mandate as well.