Health Insurance
Frequently Asked Questions About Covered California
You have probably heard a lot about Covered California, the state's health insurance marketplace through the Affordable Care Act, and you may have a few questions about what it means to you.
How to choose Sharp.
Open enrollment for 2021 health insurance plans through Covered California takes place Nov. 1, 2020, through Jan. 31, 2021. Select a plan accepted by Sharp through Covered California.
Below you will find answers to frequently asked questions about the Affordable Care Act and Covered California.
What is the Affordable Care Act?
In 2010, Congress passed the Affordable Care Act, intended to provide affordable health care options and increased access to high-quality medical care. Health care reform refers to the federal act and laws enacted by states to follow it. Those who did not have health insurance from their employer or another government program are now able to purchase insurance through the open market or the state's health insurance marketplace, Covered California, during open enrollment periods.
How does this affect me?
If you are currently insured in your employer's health plan and see a Sharp-affiliated physician, simply make sure the plan you choose during your annual benefits enrollment will continue your access to your Sharp-affiliated doctor. The best way to verify your coverage is to contact your insurance carrier directly.
If you are uninsured or purchase your own insurance, you may remain or become a Sharp patient by selecting a plan that is accepted by Sharp through the Covered California insurance marketplace.
What is a health insurance marketplace?
The state of California established Covered California to help bring affordable health insurance options to the uninsured and individuals who buy their own coverage. Those who do not have health insurance from their employer or another government program can purchase insurance through Covered California. Depending on your household size and income, you may be eligible to receive a subsidy to help you pay for your insurance.
Who can shop in the Covered California marketplace?
Legal residents of the state of California who purchase their own insurance or who are uninsured may shop for health care coverage through Covered California.
When is the open enrollment period for Covered California?
Open enrollment for 2021 health insurance plans through Covered California takes place Nov. 1, 2020, through Jan. 31, 2021.
Is there a penalty for not having health insurance?
Since 2020, Californians are required to have qualifying health insurance coverage throughout the year. Those who do not may face a financial penalty unless they qualify for an exemption. Learn more by visiting the State of California Franchise Tax Board.
I've heard about financial assistance. Do I qualify?
Since 2020, the state of California offers increased subsidies to help Californians pay for health insurance. This is in addition to financial help you may receive from the federal government. You may qualify for a Covered California plan with financial assistance, or free or low-cost Medi-Cal, depending on your household income and family size. Please refer to the eligibility criteria set by Covered California.
I already receive health insurance through my employer. Do I need to do anything?
If you participate in your employer's health plan, simply renew your coverage for access to a Sharp-affiliated physician during your company's annual benefits enrollment period, which generally takes place during October and November. Check with your employer for exact dates.
If you have questions about covered services, copays or deductibles, please call your insurance company to confirm your coverage and to confirm that your Sharp-affiliated physician participates in its network.
Can I continue visiting my Sharp-affiliated physician?
If you currently see a Sharp-affiliated physician, continue your access to Sharp by renewing your existing health insurance plan during your plan's annual enrollment period.
Use our Find a Doctor tool to check what insurance plans your doctor's office accepts and confirm coverage with your insurance carrier to ensure you can continue seeing your Sharp-affiliated physician. Check with your agent or broker for details and any exceptions.
I purchase my own insurance. How can I get access to a Sharp-affiliated physician?
If you purchase your own insurance, simply verify that your selected insurance plan is accepted by Sharp-affiliated physicians.
I'm uninsured. How can I get coverage for access to a Sharp-affiliated physician?
If you are uninsured or qualify for financial assistance, you can remain or become a Sharp patient by selecting a plan through Covered California, the state's health insurance marketplace. Learn more about buying health insurance.
I am covered under Medicare. Do I need to do anything?
How can I find a Sharp-affiliated physician?
How can I get more information?
If you need additional information about your health insurance coverage or how to receive care at Sharp, call 1-800-82-SHARP (1-800-827-4277), Monday through Friday, 7 am to 7 pm.
We'll help find the doctor who's right for you.
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