Idaho’s Uninsured Population
Affordable health insurance can be a minor priority until the day it suddenly becomes a major one. In April 2024, Marcela S. was at work when she began experiencing severe pain. She tried to push through it, but the pain worsened. “That’s when I knew I had to leave work,” Marcela recalled.
She went to the hospital, where tests revealed multiple health issues. To complicate matters further, she didn’t have health insurance and did not qualify for Medicaid.
Marcela’s situation is not uncommon in Idaho. Last year, 8.9% of the state’s population was uninsured. That’s almost a whole percentage point above the national average of 8.1%.
How a Consumer Connector Can Help
That’s when Marcela was referred to Your Health Idaho. It was her first glimmer of hope. She made a call and scheduled an appointment with a Consumer Connector. They’re agents who are certified by Your Health Idaho, and they provide assistance to Idahoans at no cost.
With the agent’s help, Marcela was able to find an affordable health insurance plan and enroll. Her new insurance covered much of of her healthcare costs. “It changed me. It changed my life,” Marcela said. “With Your Health Idaho, I feel protected.”
Where Idahoans Can Find Affordable Health Insurance
People in Idaho who don’t have health insurance may be able to find affordable coverage options through Your Health Idaho. It’s the state’s health insurance marketplace. What sets it apart are the safeguards put in place for consumers.
Plans that are offered through Your Health Idaho have to follow specific requirements. That includes limits on out-of-pocket costs and protection against higher premiums if you have a pre-existing condition. The plans also guarantee coverage of ten essential health benefits, like emergency care and prescription drugs.
Tax Credits Can Reduce the Price You Pay
Here’s something else you’ll only find at Your Health Idaho — tax credits. They act like an instant discount to make the cost of your health insurance more affordable. 90% of people who enroll through Your Health Idaho receive a tax credit.
Curious about how much of a credit you qualify for? Check out the Tax Credit Estimator Tool and find out quickly.
How to Enroll? It’s as Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Your Health Idaho has a simple enrollment process:
Step 1: Create your account, fill out and submit your application. Your financial eligibility will be determined immediately.
Step 2: Shop and compare medical and dental plans. Check the prices and see how much you’ll save with your tax credit.
Step 3: Select the plan that makes the most sense for you and your family. Then make your first payment before your policy’s effective date.
The Benefits of Affordable Health Insurance
If you live in Idaho and you don’t currently have health insurance, consider how much you’ll gain by enrolling. The coverage will be there for you when you get sick or have an accident.
And the health plans offered through Your Health Idaho all come with preventive care. Even if you’re young and healthy, preventive care is key to staying well and active through your 30s and beyond. The care can include routine screenings, vaccinations, counseling and more.
Open Enrollment runs from Oct. 15 to Dec. 15 every year. If you experience a Qualifying Life Event (QLE), you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period. A QLE can be losing your employer-sponsored coverage, getting married, having a baby, moving to or within Idaho, or other circumstances.
Find the right plan for you and your family by visiting YourHealthIdaho.org or calling our Customer Support Center at 855-944-3246.