Walgreens, GoHealth partner on health insurance marketplace resource
DEERFIELD, Ill. — With an ongoing need for consumer education and awareness to help people understand their health insurance options under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, Walgreens and Chicago-based GoHealth on Thursday announced a nationwide initiative and collaboration to assist customers and help provide a resource for those considering the new health insurance marketplaces.
Walgreens store personnel are directing individual customers who inquire to the GoHealth Marketplace, a resource where they can shop and compare health insurance plans, enroll and find other important tools and information. Consumers can access the GoHealth Marketplace online from www.walgreens.com/healthcarereform or via phone at (855) 487-6969.
Walgreens also is providing informational brochures and other materials in stores.
“As an accessible, community healthcare provider serving more than 6 million people each day, Walgreens can help connect those customers who may be considering new health insurance options with resources and information,” said Brad Fluegel, Walgreens SVP and chief strategy officer. “Our goal is to help ensure people fully understand the marketplace, and working with GoHealth to provide personalized consultation from experts who can help them make informed decisions.”
Customers receive one-on-one support from licensed GoHealth advisors who can help guide them through the selection and enrollment process (over the phone or online). The GoHealth Marketplace offers all plans available on the federal and state marketplaces and can assist individuals regardless of income level or subsidy eligibility.
“A partnership with Walgreens gives us an opportunity to reach a population that needs our help,” noted Clint Jones, CEO of GoHealth. “Educating and enabling consumers to enroll is core to our mission of helping individuals and families obtain the right health insurance coverage for their unique needs.”
According to a recent Kaiser Family Foundation survey, 51% of Americans say they don’t understand how the Affordable Care Act will affect them or their family. Public confusion is especially prominent among the uninsured, as 62% say they don’t have enough information about the health law.
“We know people will have a lot of questions and many may feel overwhelmed,” Fluegel said. “This collaboration furthers our ongoing efforts to help those who may be entering the marketplace to be better prepared and make informed choices. GoHealth is an ideal partner for this program, and together we look forward to creating a seamless experience that simplifies the process and provides the information and support people need to get, stay and live well.”