The deadline for Georgians to enroll in health insurance through Georgia Access has been extended to Friday, December 20, 2024. Originally set for Monday, the extension was announced by the Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire (OCI) to accommodate those who may be unfamiliar with the program or affected by recent hurricanes.
Georgia Access, the state’s new health insurance exchange, launched earlier this year as a part of Governor Brian Kemp’s initiative to establish a state-based marketplace. This program allows Georgians to shop for, compare, and enroll in affordable health coverage tailored to their needs. Unlike the federal exchange, Georgia Access emphasizes multiple enrollment pathways, including private web brokers, certified agents, and the Georgia Access consumer portal.
Insurance Commissioner John F. King highlighted the importance of the Open Enrollment period as an opportunity for Georgians to secure comprehensive health coverage. “Open Enrollment is the optimal time for Georgians to explore affordable options for health coverage,” King said.
The decision to extend the enrollment period reflects an effort to ensure all eligible Georgians can participate, particularly given the challenges posed by the new program’s unfamiliarity and recent natural disasters. Consumers who select a plan by December 20 will have coverage beginning January 1, 2025. Plans chosen after December 20 and by January 15 will start coverage on February 1, 2025.
Georgia Access marks a significant milestone as the state’s first exchange to implement a reinsurance program and targeted outreach efforts. The exchange has garnered notable support, including partnerships with the Georgia Bulldogs and the Atlanta Dream, aimed at raising public awareness about health coverage options. Since its launch, carrier participation has doubled, and nearly every county in Georgia now offers three or more insurance carriers.
Georgians previously enrolled through HealthCare.gov have been seamlessly transitioned to the state-based platform. For those who are not eligible for Georgia Access plans, alternative programs such as Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids®, Georgia Pathways to Coverage™, Medicare, or COBRA may be available.
Consumers can explore their health coverage options and enroll through the Georgia Access website at https://georgiaaccess.gov or by calling the Georgia Access Contact Center at (888) 687-1503. The contact center operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. EST and on weekends from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. EST.
