Millions of Americans worried about finding quality and affordable healthcare options will be happy to hear of expanded health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplaces. On April 2nd, 2024, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced finalized policies for more accessible and comprehensive health benefits.
Key Points
- Streamlined consumer experience—Federally-facilitated and state-based Marketplaces will provide more streamlined user experiences.
- Easier enrollment—Individuals with lower incomes ($38,730 for a family of 3 in 2025) will be able to apply for coverage in any month, not just the traditional Open Enrollment window.
- Expanded dental services—U.S. states will gain the option to add routine adult dental services as an Essential Health Benefit (EHB) starting in 2027. This could significantly improve access to preventive dental care for many Americans.
- Network adequacy standards—Marketplace plans will offer in-network providers within a reasonable distance of enrollees to help guarantee access to nearby healthcare services
These changes represent a significant step forward in expanding access to affordable health insurance and improving the overall quality of Marketplace plans. By making coverage more accessible and comprehensive, the HHS will ensure that more Americans have the opportunity to receive the preventive and ongoing healthcare they need.
Looking Ahead
Communicating and educating consumers about their healthcare options is just as crucial as implementing these policies and monitoring their impact on enrollment rates, affordability, and access to care.
Join the Conversation
Do you think these changes will be effective in achieving their goals? What other measures could be taken to improve access to affordable health insurance? For more insights and innovative solutions in health care marketing, visit Innovation Direct Group.