Record-Breaking Affordable Care Act Marketplace Enrollment Marks Biden-Harris Administration's Healthcare Milestone

Today, the Biden-Harris Administration made a significant announcement regarding the ongoing enrollment in the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace, highlighting a continued surge in participation. Based on preliminary data as of December 15, 2023, for states utilizing HealthCare.gov, and December 9, 2023, for State-based Marketplaces, projections indicate that over 19 million consumers are expected to enroll in coverage for the year 2024 through the ACA Marketplaces. This marks a substantial increase of over 7 million individuals since President Biden assumed office. Notably, within this figure, 15.3 million individuals have already selected a health plan utilizing the HealthCare.gov platform. Furthermore, December 15 saw a remarkable milestone with over 745,000 people selecting a Marketplace plan through HealthCare.gov, marking it as the largest single-day enrollment in history.

Secretary Xavier Becerra expressed optimism about the increasing number of Americans securing health care coverage under the ACA, emphasizing the alleviation of financial burdens associated with medical expenses. He affirmed the administration's unwavering commitment to further expand health care coverage and reduce prescription drug costs, ensuring that access to health care remains within reach for all.

Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure highlighted the significant growth in Marketplace enrollment, underscoring its crucial role in providing access to essential health care services for individuals and families. The ACA has effectively connected more people to preventive and life-saving care, facilitating the realization of the American dream for many.

​The administration remains dedicated to facilitating enrollment ahead of the upcoming January 16 deadline, continuing efforts to make health care accessible and affordable.The administration encourages families to explore the health care coverage options and savings available on HealthCare.gov, with the expectation that nine out of 10 customers will be eligible for savings due to provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act. Individuals previously eligible for Medicaid or CHIP are urged to assess their eligibility for enrollment in low-cost, quality health plans through the Marketplace.

In addition to emphasizing the competitiveness of the Marketplace, where over 90% of enrollees can choose among three or more plans, the Biden-Harris Administration has simplified the process of comparing and selecting plans by introducing standardized plans. These plans offer consistent benefits at the same cost-sharing levels, allowing consumers to focus on other critical features such as premiums and provider networks.
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The current Open Enrollment Period on HealthCare.gov typically spans from November 1 to January 15, with an extension until midnight on January 16, 2024, due to January 15 being a federal holiday. Enrollees who sign up before this deadline will have coverage commencing on February 1, 2024. As enrollment numbers continue to rise, the ACA Marketplace evolves to meet changing needs. For the 2024 coverage period, significant improvements have been made, including expanded choices, enhanced shopping tools, increased provider options, and efforts to promote health equity. Additionally, CMS has proposed measures aimed at broadening access to more comprehensive and affordable health coverage options for the 2025 coverage period. These proposals include allowing states to incorporate routine adult dental services as essential health benefits, subject to feedback from stakeholders, with comments on the proposed policies due by January 8, 2024.

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