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At Least 11 Dead After Severe Flooding Sweeps The South; Hundreds Of Thousands Without Power; Abandoned Mine Land program frozen as Appalachia faces severe flooding; Solar power gives MN resort new blood, new life.

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Top Trump officials set to meet with Russian officials in Saudi Arabia over the Ukraine war. The GOP budget resolution is at risk as moderates weigh out consequences. New York City Mayor Eric Adams says he's "going nowhere."

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Free, unbiased health insurance help available for Ohioans

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Wednesday, December 4, 2024   

Ohioans have until Jan. 15 to sign up for health insurance coverage during the open enrollment period.

Programs like Get Covered Ohio are available to help people navigate their options on HealthCare.gov or apply for Medicaid.

Grace Wagner, director of health initiatives for the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, said the program's navigators are certified by the federal government and licensed by the state of Ohio, and they are not trying to sell anyone anything.

"Navigators through Get Covered Ohio are here to provide free and unbiased assistance to anyone looking to find coverage and assess their options," Wagner explained.

She pointed out the program is available to anyone across the state, and folks can call 833-NAV-4-INS to get help. The marketplace aims to help those who do not qualify for Medicaid or employer-sponsored insurance, offering a way for more people to access affordable health care.

Health care advocates often stress the importance of annual reviews during open enrollment, even for those already insured. Wagner noted changes in personal circumstances or updates to coverage plans may create opportunities for better options.

"Health insurance makes a crucial difference in someone's life," Wagner emphasized. "It lowers the cost of preventative care, like well-child visits and screenings. Even if you feel perfectly healthy, it just helps with managing conditions and preventing things before they start."

The program is fully supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It has more than $2.5 million in federal funding to help ensure that Ohioans can find and sign up for free health care coverage. The views expressed do not reflect those of the federal government.

Disclosure: Ohio Association of Foodbanks contributes to our fund for reporting on Budget Policy & Priorities, Hunger/Food/Nutrition, Livable Wages/Working Families, Poverty Issues. If you would like to help support news in the public interest, click here.


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