(Memphis) It’s the law of the land, and it’s likely the Affordable Health Care will affect you.
“Everybody is gonna be effected. The working class, the lower class, everybody,” says Misty Long of Bartlett.
Now, Tennesseans who relied on health coverage under CoverTN are feeling the effects.
A letter went out to members this month saying come December 31, 2013, the state health program that provided affordable health care for the working uninsured will end.
It means many low-income small business workers and self-employed individuals will have to find new health insurance by January 1, to avoid a break in coverage.
It’s another fall-out from the Affordable Care Act, which mandates everyone have health care next year or pay a penalty.
“I think it’s gonna be a positive thing because there are so many people who don’t have health insurance, especially in the local area,” says Demetria Thompson of Cordova.
Workers will have to make some tough choices and are encouraged to talk to their companies to see what is being offered.
The Tennessee Office of the U.S. Small Business Administration is urging small business owners and employees to talk with their insurers, learn about coverage options and compare plans on healthcare.gov.
Tennessee did seek a waiver to allow CoverTN to continue pass December 31, to give members more time to find alternative insurance.
Because CoverTN doesn’t cover all the services required by the Affordable Care Act, the request was denied.
Those with maternity coverage under CoverKids will be able to keep their coverage into post pardum.
