Get Covered Central Coast Begins Community Outreach

Organizers for Get Covered Central Coast invite the community to learn more about the new health insurance requirements outlined under the Affordable Care Act. 'Understanding the Individual Mandate to Purchase Health Insurance� is the title of the first in a series of free community forums designed to educate the public on California's Health Insurance Exchange.

Marian Regional Medical Center will host the first event in Santa Maria July 15, from 6:30-8:00 PM at 1400 East Church Street, Conference Center (the corner of Palisades and Church Street). A second meeting will be held in Spanish on July 25th at .Veterans Memorial Community Center, 313 W. Tunnell St.,  Santa Maria, CA.

 Formed to clear up confusion about the new health care law and encourage enrollment within the Central Coast Community, Get Covered Central Coast is a collaboration of insurance agencies, hospitals, clinics, community based groups, religious institutions, government, and businesses dedicated to providing education and enrollment assistance to eligible local residents.  Organization founder Michael Framberger will provide his expertise at the June 15^th community forum.

Framberger is a health insurance professional with more than 30 years of experience.  He is a recognized authority on the Affordable Care Act and has been briefing healthcare providers and businesses statewide on Health Care Reform and how it is likely to be implemented.

“With only a few months before open enrollment begins on October 1, there is still a lot of confusion and misunderstanding about the mandate,” Framberger said. “Anyone interested in learning more about the new law and how it will impact them should attend these educational opportunities.”

Under the mandate, everyone eligible must have health insurance beginning January 1, 2014, or pay a penalty.  “Many households may be eligible for a substantial subsidy to offset their premium cost, so it is critical that they understand the program,” Framberger explained.

The forums will cover details about eligibility and options, and various county organizations will also be available for outreach and enrollment assistance.