The final deadline to open enroll for health insurance using the Affordable Care Act’s Insurance Marketplace is January 31st. Visiting Nurse Services of Iowa has set up events throughout the state to assist individuals who still need to enroll for insurance via the marketplace. One such event is taking place in Sigourney on Monday, January 16th. VNS will act as navigators for people who are unsure how to use the marketplace, or what policies would be best suited for them. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins will be accepted. However, due to the possibility of high turnout at the event, walk-ins may be rescheduled for a later date.

The navigators estimate the enrollment process to take around 90 minutes per person, provided individuals bring all necessary documentation. This includes Social Security numbers, employer and income information, policy numbers for any current health insurance plans, and information about any employer provided health insurance. Experts say the uninsured rate has fallen to the lowest level on record, but many Americans are uninsured because they don’t know about the options that exist to help them obtain coverage. It’s estimated that 85% of marketplace-eligible people could qualify for financial help with insurance purchased, and the navigators plan on showing attendees how that can be obtained. There is no cost, and the event runs from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Sigourney Public Library. To make an appointment, call 515-288-1516.