Downriver Today

A $4 million federal grant will provide Michigan residents with more options for health insurance.

The grant will "expand access to qualified health insurance Navigators and help more people find health insurance," according to a press release from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's (D-MI) office.

Health Insurance Navigators provide families in Michigan and the U.S. with an avenue to explore health care coverage options through the Marketplace, Medicaid, and the MIChild program, the press release noted. "Navigators operate year-round to increase awareness and help consumers access the tools and resources they need to use and maintain their health coverage. Navigators must complete comprehensive federal Navigator training and criminal background checks prior to assisting consumers."

"Every Michigander deserves access to high-quality, affordable health care," Whitmer said in the press release. "As a state legislator, I worked across the aisle to pass the Healthy Michigan Plan into law, which currently covers more than one million Michiganders. When paired with the recent extension of health care subsidies in the Inflation Reduction Act, this investment will expand access to quality, affordable health care. Right now, the national uninsured rate is at an all-time low of just 8% thanks to the work we've done already, and we can continue to work together to keep driving it down so everyone has care that meets their needs."

Anita Fox, director of the Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services (DIFS), revealed the news with Whitmer.

"Open enrollment for 2023 starts on Nov. 1, and you can find free, local enrollment help by logging on to LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov or by calling 800-318-2596," Fox said in the press release. "Navigators will help you enroll in a 2023 Marketplace plan or, if you qualify, will help you access Medicaid, Michigan's MIChild program, or other government assistance programs. If you need health insurance for the remainder of 2022, Navigators will work with you now to investigate your options and help you get access to the coverage you need for yourself and your family."

Use of the grant, plus state tax subsidies and various federal actions, is expected to lower the national uninsured rate – which was at a record low of 8% this year, the press release noted. Residents interested in enrolling for health insurance coverage can visit LocalHelp.HealthCare.gov or call 800-318-2596.