Health Care Reform and You

On March 23, 2010, the Affordable Care Act became law. The law puts in place significant reforms to health insurance that have been implemented over the last few years, including numerous consumer protections. Consumers will find security in knowing that:

• They have access to affordable health coverage.
• They can get health care when they need it.
• They will have coverage for all of their essential health needs.
• They can no longer be denied coverage due to pre-existing conditions.
• They cannot be charged more if they have pre-existing conditions.
• They will no longer have any lifetime or annual limits.
• They can seek preventative services without copays or deductibles.
• Children up to age 26 can remain on their parent's health plan.
• They will get value for their premium dollars.

The Health Education and Advocacy Unit is here to assist you in understanding how the Act may affect you and to help with your health insurance questions and problems.

We Can Help You

• File complaints or appeals with your health insurance company if your health insurance claim was denied.
• Identify enrollment opportunities for health insurance coverage.
• File complaints or appeals with Maryland Health Connection if you were denied enrollment or tax subsidies.
• Understand your rights and responsibilities regarding health insurance coverage.
• Learn about health insurance related issues.
• If you need help resolving a billing dispute with a health care provider.

Help is free. Call us on the hotline or contact us through our website and the HEAU's mediators and ombudsmen will start working for you.

Open Enrollment  

Maryland Health Connection's Open Enrollment runs from November 1, 2021, through January 15, 2022. Enroll in health and dental insurance plans for 2022 at www.marylandhealthconnection.gov. Enroll November 1 through December 31, 2021, for coverage effective January 1, 2022. Enroll January 1 through 15, 2022, for coverage effective February 1, 2022. Medicaid enrollment is year-round.​​

Apply at www.marylandhealthconnection.gov or download the free “Enroll MHC" mobile app. Call 855-642-8572 weekdays from 8 am to 6 pm to apply by telephone. Get connected to free expert help virtually or by telephone.

Our Health Education and Advocacy Unit can assist consumers who have enrollment disputes involving qualified health plans. Visit www.maryland cares.org  for free help with an enrollment dispute. ​

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For more information, go to Maryland Health Connection. Not a Marylander? Visit Healthcare.gov.

Health Education and Advocacy Unit
Consumer Protection Division
Maryland Attorney General's Office
410-528-1840 or 877-261-8807 (toll free)
www.marylandattorneygeneral.gov/Pages/CPD/HEAU/