Record number of New Jerseyans sign up for Obamacare this year
A record 342,000 New Jerseyans signed up for health coverage this year through the Affordable Care Act, state officials announced Thursday.
That's almost 18,000 more than last year, which had also set a record, and mirrors a national trend. Almost 16.3 million people nationwide signed up for the insurance policy known popularly as Obamacare, an increase of about 13% from 2022.
The latest data shows a steady decline in the state's uninsured.
New Jerseyans under 65 with health insurance increased from 85% in 2010 to about 91% in 2020, according to the latest state data. Hispanic and Black residents continue to lag behind white New Jerseyans with coverage.
Get Covered New Jersey
Obamacare — called "Get Covered New Jersey" — is often the only option for residents who do not get health insurance through an employer or government programs such as Medicaid or Medicare. The increase this year came as New Jersey's unemployment rate fell to 3.4% in December after having been almost double that at the same time a year prior.
Open enrollment period doubled
The open enrollment period was doubled by Gov. Phil Murphy to three months and lasts from Nov. 1 to Jan. 31.
What plans must cover
Policies vary but all plans must cover the 10 essential benefits required under the Affordable Care Act:
Outpatient care such as visits to a doctor's office, clinic or surgery center.
Emergency services.
Hospitalization including for surgery.
Pregnancy, maternity and newborn care.
Pediatric services, including oral and vision care.
Mental health, substance abuse services and behavioral treatment, including counseling and psychotherapy.
Prescription drugs.
Lab services.
Rehabilitative services and devices.
Preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management.
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: Obamacare: Record number in NJ sign up this year
