Affordable Care Act

The Affordable Care Act puts in place comprehensive health insurance reforms that may affect Western Michigan University students. Review our participation list to see if the insurance selected is accepted at the health center. Ask before purchasing.

All marketplace plans must include a wide range of benefits including wellness visits, preventative tests, hospital visits, pregnancy and more.

• Pre-existing conditions will no longer affect eligibility or cost of your insurance
• You can’t be denied health coverage based on health status
• Young adults can stay on a parent's plan until they turn 26
• Your coverage can’t be dropped if you are sick
• Health insurers can’t place lifetime or yearly limits on your coverage

The cost of the insurance works on a sliding scale based on your income. When you apply for the marketplace, you’ll find out if you qualify for:

• Free or low-cost coverage from Medicaid
• Free or low-cost coverage for children from Children’s Health Insurance Program (MI-Child)
• Assistance with premium costs through tax subsidies

Open enrollment
Enrollment is open during specific times of the year (usually December through January) or if you have a qualifying life event. 

Help with enrollment
Explore plans, eligibility, and enroll at www.healthcare.gov.