Health Care Enrollment Extended, Free Help Available

Help for affordable health care is available in the Upper Cumberland through the Tennessee Healthcare Campaign.

Campaign Organizer Thomas Savage said 44 percent of people in Putnam, Overton, Clay and Cumberland Counties have no insurance or use the Affordable Care Act. Savage said that open enrollment has been extended until August 15.

“This new Tennessee Healthcare Campaign under the Rescue Plan that was just implemented under this new presidential administration,” Savage said. “Is creating an opportunity for people to get insurance at a decent rate.”

The number to call for health care assistance is 844-644-5443 or online at www.insurealltn.com for help.

Savage said that most people who apply can get health insurance coverage for $10 or less, per month. He said all someone needs to do is have their social security number and a licensed agent can help for free.

“Unless healthcare is provided for their job, they have to pay a high, astronomical price for their health care,” Savage said. “Through this action of the rescue package, it has created a way where people can purchase health care really cheap.”

Savage said whether someone is trying to get on Tenncare or just needs coverage for checkups, now is the time to act. He said this campaign came out of the pandemic, but it has been an issue all along.

“I’m going to churches, I’m going to rotary clubs, chamber of commerce, any organization to ask them to spread the word,” Savage said. “There’s so many people who are hurting for insurance.”

Savage said this is a non-profit organization. This COVID related special enrollment period is running from February 15 until August 15 of 2021.