Innovative website puts Americans in charge of their health care decisions
WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Judy Chu (D-CA) announced today the launch of HealthCare.gov, a comprehensive website designed to guide consumers through the benefits and requirements of health care reform. The website hosts a wealth of clear, jargon-free information, including a tool that will help individuals and small businesses navigate the process of shopping for health insurance.
“Buying insurance and getting the most out of health care can be confusing for many of us,” said Chu. “This tool helps people understand their options. Finally, families and small businesses can easily search the insurance options available to them and make informed decisions about their health care with thorough, unbiased information.”
The core of the new website is the powerful insurance options finder. After consumers input a few pieces of background information – such as state, age range, and current insurance status – the tool will generate a list of both private and public health insurance options. The tool will outline the details of insurance plans offered in that state and include contact information for each insurance provider so consumers can contact the company about the plans that best fit their individual needs.
Beginning in October, the tool will also include pricing information, further simplifying health insurance shopping. A Spanish-language version of the site should launch by the end of this month and the Department of Health and Human Services is currently considering translations into other languages.
“I’m confident this valuable resource will continue to improve and expand,” added Chu. “I look forward to the launch of the site’s Spanish-language version and will push for its translation into other languages – ensuring that every American receives the health care advice he or she needs.”
“With the addition of plan price estimates in October, HealthCare.gov will enable consumers to compare both the quality and the cost of their health insurance options so they can choose what plan works best for them,” Chu continued. “Not only will this website expand consumer choice, but it will increase competition among insurers to offer better quality and more affordable coverage.”
