Deadline approaching to get health-care coverage

The clock is ticking for people who still have not applied for health-care coverage at healthcare.gov.
Officials from the Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency said they are working tirelessly to ensure that all tri-county residents are enrolled. With two certified navigators and six certified application counselors on staff, someone is always available to assist with questions and provide assistance in applying.
Feb. 15 is the last day for open enrollment through the Healthcare Marketplace, according to Steve Todd, health officer of the tri-county health department.
Todd said he suspects people may not understand the full impact of the financial penalties involved. Those who file their taxes later in the tax season may be surprised to find out the cost of not having health insurance, Todd said.
St. Joseph County residents who have questions about the program can call the agency’s Three Rivers branch, at 273-2161.