By Michael Rashid, President and CEO, Ambetter from IlliniCare Health
For thousands of Chicago residents, health insurance doesn’t come from their employer. Instead, they rely on the federal Health Insurance Marketplace to purchase their own coverage through the Affordable Care Act. It’s a way for individuals and families alike to take charge of their own health by exploring and enrolling in health coverage that fits their needs.
This year, the open enrollment period for the Marketplace closes on Sunday, Dec. 15, so Chicagoans should act quickly to ensure they’re covered in 2020. One of the biggest factors in their decision will be whether their preferred doctors are available in network. Fortunately, those who prefer AMITA Health and its network of hospitals and healthcare centers have even more options this year, as AMITA Health has joined the Ambetter from IlliniCare Health network. This means that patients that prefer the following AMITA Health facilities can explore Ambetter coverage for their health needs:
| • Adventist Medical Center Bolingbrook
• Adventist Medical Center GlenOaks • Adventist Medical Center Hinsdale • Adventist Medical Center La Grange • Alexian Brothers Medical Center Elk Grove Village • Holy Family Medical Center Des Plaines • Mercy Medical Center Aurora • Rehabilitation Hospital Elk Grove Village • Resurrection Medical Center Chicago |
• St. Alexius Medical Center Hoffman Estates
• Saint Francis Hospital Evanston • Saint Joseph Hospital Chicago • Saint Joseph Hospital Elgin • Saint Joseph Medical Center Joliet • Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center Chicago – Saint Mary Campus • Saints Mary and Elizabeth Medical Center Chicago – Saint Elizabeth Campus • St. Mary’s Hospital Kankakee • Women & Children’s Hospital Hoffman Estates |
The addition of AMITA Health adds several care specialties for Ambetter from IlliniCare Health, including advanced surgical care, imaging, behavioral health, rehabilitation, and more. While the decision to select a health insurance plan may seem daunting, there are plenty of resources available to help people make informed and empowered decisions regarding their health. There are also others that may question the value of getting insured or think it’s not right for them, but there are numerous reasons that it’s actually easier and more accessible than you think:
• It’s easy to enroll: Residents can explore health insurance plans, evaluate pricing and features, determine eligibility for subsidies, and enroll in a health plan online, over the phone, or even in person. Our Ambetter from IlliniCare Health website has valuable information about coverage options and even allows people to enroll directly on the website with assistance. HealthCare.gov also features health insurance options for enrolling online or finding local, in-person assistance.
• Coverage is affordable: Health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace is designed to be affordable by offering varying insurance options and price levels to fit different budgets and lifestyles. Chicago residents can check if they qualify for tax credits to help offset the cost of insurance.
• It can improve your health and wellness: All health coverage on the Health Insurance Marketplace, including Ambetter from IlliniCare Health, covers the 10 essential health benefits, including preventative and wellness services. Preventative care helps identify risk factors and prevent more serious health conditions. Insured adults are more likely to get preventative care services than uninsured adults, according to independent research from The Commonwealth Fund.
• It empowers you by being prepared: No one plans to get sick or injured, but most people will need medical care at some point. Without health insurance, medical services can be expensive and may negatively impact a person’s financial stability. Health insurance helps lessen these unexpected costs.
Ambetter from IlliniCare Health is proud to support the healthcare needs of Chicago residents. As we expand our network with AMITA Health and provide helpful enrollment resources, we continue to empower everyone to take charge of their health with more choices and knowledge.
