by Boo Reiser
2-1-1 Project Specialist/Navigator
Who do you know that needs health coverage? As a United Way 2-1-1 Navigator, this is a question I often ask as I discuss the Affordable Care Act (aka Obamacare or ACA). This question is easy for many to answer, as we all know someone in need of health care. As a Navigator I work in partnership with Take Care Utah, a state wide collaboration with the mission of providing information regarding the benefits of the Affordable Care Act, helping individuals navigate the current health care system. Knowing the benefits of this new law, I often find myself wondering why so many people are hesitant in learning about their options when enrolling for health insurance. In a world dominated by controversial media, formulating a clear idea of the true nature of health care policy can be tremendously difficult.
In my experience, providing information is necessary and addressing misconceptions is essential. Recently I met with a woman who had many concerns regarding the ACA. She and her husband have been without health insurance for a number of years, yet she was extremely hesitant in receiving help and enrolling for health coverage. As I listened to her concerns, I realized that many were merely misconceptions. After considering the true nature of the ACA, her anxieties were resolved and we proceeded to help her find affordable health coverage.
This is only one example of how misconceptions can paralyze the decision to seek out health insurance and learn about options provided through the ACA. Experiences similar to this occur on a regular basis and it is the job of Take Care Utah to clarify issues and help those in need find affordable health insurance.
With more than 400,000 individuals still uninsured in the state, the task of Take Care Utah often seems insurmountable. A collective effort is required to support those in the greatest need of help.
So what can you do?
- Learn about the issue: Whether it is through the media or other popular resources, read about the ACA and learn for yourself what is going on. As you learn about the issues, consider how this law will impact you and those you know.
- Share your story: If you or someone you know has benefited from the ACA, share that story. As you participate in health care related discussions, opportunities will arise to provide a positive perspective regarding the ACA.
- Call 2-1-1: If you or someone you know has questions about the ACA, be sure to visit takecareutah.org and call 2-1-1. We will be sure to put you in contact with a Navigator near you to help and answer your questions.
Ultimately, learning about the ACA and finding quality, affordable health insurance is an individual choice, but many need to know that choice can be a benefit for their family.
So again, who do you know who needs health insurance?
