HHS Expands Access to More Affordable Catastrophic Health Coverage

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) issued guidance, designed to enable more of the U.S. population to qualify for catastrophic health coverage through the Exchange based on need. Access will begin on November 1 during the start of open enrollment (the announcement can be found here and the Fact Sheet can be found here). These plans provide all essential health benefits required by the ACA but at lower premiums designed to increase financial accessibility. New this year will also be an online option for completing the hardship exemption request.