I am a baby boomer. Both my parents are alive and in relatively good health, however, they aren’t getting any younger. I’ve attempted to discuss several of these topics with my dad over the past several years. He politely assures me he has it handled and that’s the extent of the conversation, however, I don’t know what that means nor do I have any knowledge of what he or my mother truly want.
My search for health insurance has been interesting to say the least. Until this year, it’s been a relatively easy task; place a call to my broker, have her provide me with quotes, review the plans, pick a plan, pay the bill each month, and forget about it for another year. All that changed this year with the Affordable Care Act.
Growing up, my dad would look at me and with his best imitation of W.C. Fields say, “Close but no cigar kid!” when I’d almost get the point but be just a little off on what I was saying. I was reminded of his doing that with my ongoing search for affordable health insurance through the federal exchange. I’m closer to the answers I’ve been seeking but I haven’t been awarded a cigar yet.
October 1 arrived on Tuesday, the first day to evaluate and enroll in one of the Affordable Care Act’s plans. The 17 States that have their own exchanges, along with the Federal exchange, were quickly swamped as millions of people attempted to get on and determine what the ACA meant to them personally.
There are 4 plans that will be offered under the Affordable Care Act. Enrollment will begin on Tuesday, October 1 however pricing was released on Wednesday, September 25. So this is a good time to compare pricing, especially if you’re self-employed or pay for an individual policy through Blue Cross, Aetna, etc.
The Affordable Care Act was signed into law on March 23, 2010 with some of the provisions going into effect immediately. The minimum coverage provision or individual mandate goes into effect on January 1, 2014. That means it’s imperative for individuals and families to know what’s coming, how to prepare, and what its impact with be for them.
On a Sunday in February, Sheri (my wife) and I had breakfast at Cindi’s Deli in Dallas with Jordan & Christine (my son and daughter in law). The two of them were in town and this gave us some nice time together and to catch up. They presented us with a Valentine’s Day card that happened to have a picture of a sonogram showing they were expecting their first child. I was completely caught off guard but incredibly excited for them and us. This is the first Wise grandbaby and I’m thrilled!
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