Harkin Applauds News That 4.2 Million Americans, Including More Than 15,000 Iowans, Have Signed Up For Coverage Through Health Insurance Marketplaces
One-Quarter of Iowa’s February Enrollees Are Ages 18-34
WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Tom Harkin (D-IA), Chairman of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, today applauded the news that 4.2 million Americans, including more than 15,000 Iowans, have signed up for health coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplaces, up from 11,788 at the end of January. In Iowa, 25 percent of the February health insurance enrollees were between the ages of 18 and 34, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“The health insurance marketplaces created under the Affordable Care Act are making health insurance coverage a reality for millions of Americans, including more than 15,000 Iowans. One-quarter of these enrollees were young adults between the ages of 18 and 34,” Harkin said. “It’s also not too late for Iowans who want health insurance for 2014 to enroll in coverage through our state exchange. Until March 31, Iowans can review their options and sign up by visiting Healthcare.gov or by calling 1-800-318-2596.
“The Affordable Care Act is giving Iowans choice and competition, and has strong consumer protections that ensure that Iowans receive quality, comprehensive care. Once you enroll, your coverage cannot be taken away just because you get sick. Insurance companies must cover essential health benefits like hospitalization, emergency services, maternal and newborn care, prescription drugs, and mental health services. Preventive care like cancer and cholesterol screenings are covered with no copays and no deductibles. In the coming weeks and months, we will hear from even more Americans—like the stories I am hearing from Iowans—who are taking advantage of this coverage.”
As Chairman of the HELP Committee, Harkin played a pivotal role in the passage of the Affordable Care Act. He also serves as Chairman of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies.
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