THE WASHTENAW HEALTH Plan (WHP) has launched a “Get Covered” campaign to promote access to health coverage for everyone. In partnership with Adams Outdoor Advertising, the WHP is raising billboards throughout Washtenaw and Livingston counties. The message is simple: Get Covered.

“The ‘Get Covered’ message is meant to spur people to action. We want people to have health care, and we don’t want them to pay any penalties,” noted Ruth Kraut, program administrator. “The timing of the campaign is also important. The Healthy Michigan Plan is open year-round, but the Marketplace is only open during the next few months.”

The Marketplace has open enrollment between November 15, 2014 and February 15, 2015. The Healthy Michigan Plan, Michigan’s Medicaid expansion, is open for enrollment all year.

Under the Affordable Care Act, there are new opportunities for health coverage. An estimated 10,472 Washtenaw County residents enrolled in health coverage through the Marketplace during last year’s open enrollment. Since the Medicaid expansion began in April 2014, there have been 9,707 Washtenaw residents enrolled in the Healthy Michigan Plan.

The WHP is working to ensure that county residents have access to health coverage. coverage. The Affordable Care Act requires health care coverage. According to county officials, “many people are eligible for free or highly subsidized coverage, but do not know that they are eligible.”

Those in need of assistance or who have questions can call 734-544-3030 for a Marketplace appointment. County residents can call or walk-in for assistance with the Healthy Michigan Plan (Medicaid expansion). Walk-in hours are 9:00 am to 4:00 pm Monday through Friday. The WHP is located at 555 Towner Street in Ypsilanti. Translation services are available.