The Government has released several consumer tools to explain health care reform and the new Health Insurance Marketplaces. This public relations push coincided with the 100 day countdown to the Marketplace (Exchange) open enrollment period.
The website www.healthcare.gov was fully revised to be more consumer-friendly, and a 24-hour call line at 1-800-318-2596 was opened to address questions.
Beginning in 2014, individuals who do not have coverage will pay a $95 tax penalty. The government is trying, through its PR pitch, to bring attention to health care reform and individual coverage requirements. Employers, particularly small employers, can also receive information about compliance requirements and offering coverage to employees through the Exchanges.
Employers may wish to become familiar with the government website resources, and can refer employees to the hotline number for specific questions about health care reform and enrolling in coverage through the Exchanges.