Jaime's story: Life without health insurance
Have you met Jaime?
Jaime’s a 27-year-old college graduate who hasn’t been to the doctor since her 11th grade physical. She makes less than $20,000 a year. Like millions of Americans, Jaime does not have health insurance.
Sometimes you need more than a good night's sleep
Jaime shared her story with us:
"Every time I get sick, I get you know... If it can't be fixed with Advil, NyQuil and a good night's sleep I don't really have a solution for it.
Between all of the obligations I already have like utilities and rent and student loan payments, within my budget, there's no way I can afford health care.
If something bad happened to me... if I were in an accident or if I developed some kind of serious illness, there's no possible way I could afford it."
How the Marketplace helps people like Jaime
Jaime is looking forward to the peace of mind, safety, and stability that Marketplace coverage will provide.
In the Health Insurance Marketplace, all plans will cover a set of 10 essential benefits including access to 22 preventive health services for women.
Jaime won't be denied coverage for a pre-existing condition or charged more because she’s a woman.
She may be able to get lower costs on a wide range of Marketplace health plans or she can purchase a "catastrophic" health plan available to people under 30.
Share your story
Find out how health care is changing - in 214 words. And tell us why health insurance is important to you. Are you looking forward to getting covered in 2014?
- Share your thoughts in a Tweet using the hashtag #214words
- Leave us a comment on Facebook in 14 words or less
- Submit a comment below
Help us spread the word! Open enrollment begins on October 1, 2013. Coverage starts as soon as January 1, 2014.