Healthy Michigan Plan Now Open for Enrollment!

Have you heard of the Healthy Michigan Plan? It’s a new, low-cost health plan designed for low-income Michigan residents. Nearly half a million Michigan adults will be eligible for coverage beginning April 1, 2014. This government financed health insurance program is paid for by the federal Affordable Care Act, popularly known as Obamacare.

Available through the state of Michigan, the Healthy Michigan Plan covers those who make up to 133 percent of the federal poverty level. That works out to roughly $16,000 a year for one person or $33,000 for a family of four.

The Healthy Michigan Plan covers everything from doctor visits to hospitalizations to prescriptions at a low cost. To apply, there are three options for Michigan residents:

• Apply online at www.michigan.gov/mibridges
• Apply by phone at (855) 789-5610
• Call the Community Resource Center at (734) 428-7722 to schedule an appointment for assistance with the application

The Healthy Michigan Plan includes most benefits associated with traditional health insurance plans at a more affordable cost, based on household income. Those who make between 100 and 133 percent of the federal poverty level will contribute up to 2 percent of their income to a health savings account, which can be used to pay for out-of-pocket medical expenses. The plan offers incentives for healthy behaviors, such as losing weight, quitting smoking, and preventive measures, such as getting a flu shot.

The 10 Essential Health Benefits covered in the Healthy Michigan Plan are: ambulatory patient services, emergency services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, mental health and substance use disorder treatment services, including behavioral health treatment, prescription drugs, rehabilitative and habilitative services and devices, laboratory services, preventative and wellness services and chronic disease management, and pediatric services, including oral and vision care. The Healthy Michigan Plan will cover other medically necessary services as appropriate.

For more information about what the Healthy Michigan Plan covers, who is eligible, and to apply, visit www.HealthyMichiganPlan.org.

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by News News