Georgia’s New Health Insurance Marketplace: Georgia Access
Starting on November 1, 2024, Georgia will transition to its new state-based health insurance marketplace, Georgia Access, marking a significant change from using Healthcare.gov. This shift is part of Georgia’s efforts to create a tailored, state-run marketplace that will provide Georgians with more options and easier access to affordable health coverage.
What is Georgia Access?
Georgia Access is the official health insurance marketplace for the state, allowing eligible Georgians to shop for, compare, and enroll in health insurance plans for 2025 coverage. This transition to a state-based exchange (SBE) will allow Georgia to take full control over the enrollment process, improving access to health insurance plans and services.
Key Features of Georgia Access:
- Open Enrollment for 2025: Opens on November 1, 2024, with the last day to enroll for January 1st coverage being December 15, 2024. Coverage for those who enroll by December 15th will start on January 1, 2025.
- Enhanced Subsidies: The marketplace will continue to offer Enhanced Premium Tax Credits (ePTCs), which have significantly reduced premiums for low- and middle-income families. In 2024, many Georgians saw an 87% reduction in their premiums thanks to these subsidies.
- No More Healthcare.gov: After November 1, 2024, Georgians will use Georgia Access exclusively. Healthcare.gov will no longer be available for those looking for individual health coverage in Georgia.
Why the Transition?
Georgia’s transition from a federally run marketplace to Georgia Access is part of a larger strategy to provide more choice and control over health coverage. The Georgia Access Model is designed to improve consumer experience, increase competition, and promote innovation. This change follows years of stagnant enrollment and limited carrier options in the state.
Enrollment Growth
Georgia has seen significant growth in the number of residents enrolled in the ACA Marketplace over the past few years. In 2024, more than 1.3 million Georgians enrolled in health coverage through the ACA, up from just over 458,000 in 2019. This growth is primarily due to increased financial assistance and a more competitive marketplace.
What to Expect for 2025:
- Online Enrollment: Georgians can visit GeorgiaAccess.gov to explore their health insurance options, compare plans, and enroll for coverage. The website will guide consumers through the process, with additional resources available through certified navigators and brokers.
- Hybrid Model in 2024: While Georgia Access will operate in full in 2025, 2024 serves as a hybrid year where consumers will use the Georgia Access website, but they will be redirected to Healthcare.gov to view plans, compare prices, and finalize enrollments.
Risks and Concerns
While the transition to Georgia Access provides new opportunities, it also introduces potential challenges. The use of the Enhanced Direct Enrollment (EDE) model raises concerns that consumers may be exposed to non-ACA-compliant plans (i.e., junk plans) that offer lower premiums but less comprehensive coverage. The state is also working to ensure that vulnerable groups, such as low-income families, rural residents, and those needing additional enrollment assistance, are effectively reached and supported.
Important Dates for 2025 Coverage:
- Oct. 28, 2024: Window shopping opens on GeorgiaAccess.gov.
- Nov. 1, 2024: Open Enrollment begins for 2025 coverage.
- Dec. 15, 2024: Last day to enroll for January 1st coverage.
- Jan. 16, 2025: Final day of Open Enrollment.
What Will Stay the Same?
- Eligibility for Financial Assistance: Georgians will still be eligible for subsidies to help reduce their premium costs.
- Essential Health Benefits: Plans will still cover the 10 essential health benefits required by law, including preventive care.
- Local Help: Certified enrollment assisters and navigators will continue to offer free, in-person assistance to help Georgians through the enrollment process.
Accessing Help
Georgians can get help through the Georgia Access Local Help Support page, where they can find free, in-person assistance and connect with certified navigators.