Cancer treatment center opens in Toms River
Hackensack Meridian Health unveils the Toms River Regional Cancer Center, offering new equipment and expertise to Ocean County cancer patients.
Thomas P. Costello, Asbury Park Press
The clock is ticking on uninsured New Jerseyans to obtain Affordable Care Act-mandated healthcare, as mere hours remain before the deadline.
More than 7% of New Jersey residents are not covered by private or public health insurance according to the United Heath Foundation, and if you’re among them, you’ll need to act fast to get coverage through New Jersey’s healthcare marketplace.
When is the deadline to get ACA Healthcare?
The healthcare open enrollment deadline in New Jersey is Monday, Dec. 15.
How to get healthcare coverage through NJ’s marketplace
Uninsured New Jerseyans can access GetCoveredNJ, New Jersey’s official healthcare marketplace, to compare coverage plans and obtain coverage.
GetCoveredNJ outlined steps you should take to obtain healthcare coverage through its marketplace:
- Browse plans and create an account
- Star a new application
- Shop for a plan
- Pay your first premium
Documents you’ll need to apply for healthcare coverage in NJ
You’ll need to gather several documents and provide pieces of information before you can apply for healthcare in New Jersey through GetCoveredNJ:
- Photo identification
- Social Security number
- Last four pay stubs
- Most recent tax returns
Can I apply for healthcare coverage after the deadline?
You may qualify to apply for federally-mandated healthcare coverage during the Special Enrollment Period, which generally extends the deadline.
“Some life events, such as pregnancy, having a baby, or adoption qualify you for a Special Enrollment Period and allow you to enroll in coverage with an earlier effective date. Certain life-changing events also allow consumers to make changes to their current coverage,” read a portion of GetCoveredNJ’s website. “Uninsured or underinsured residents can indicate their interest in coverage for themselves or a tax household member when completing their state income tax return.
“Through the New Jersey Easy Enrollment Health Insurance Program, consumers can receive an invitation to apply and enroll outside of the Open Enrollment Period. If you qualify for an SEP, you usually have up to 60 days after the event to enroll or change your plan.”
Damon C. Williams is a Philadelphia-based journalist reporting on trending topics across the Mid-Atlantic Region.
