Access to affordable healthcare is under attack by the Trump Administration. Will you help fight back?

Since 2013, the Affordable Care Act (aka “Obamacare”) has helped LGBTQ people and families get access to quality, affordable health insurance. Thanks to the law, the uninsured rate for low- and middle-income LGBTQ people has dropped by an overwhelming 35%. That means more people in our community have access to medically necessary services they need, from life-saving HIV drugs to transgender health care.

But all of this is at risk.

Even though Congress has repeatedly failed to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act, the Trump Administration is sabotaging the health insurance marketplaces — and those who need coverage.

Given these repeated attacks on our health care, this will be the hardest year ever to make sure that LGBTQ people get the health insurance they need and know the facts:

FACT: The marketplaces will soon be open for business for 2018. Once a year, you can enroll (or re-enroll) in health insurance or switch plans at HealthCare.gov. This year’s open enrollment period begins on November 1, 2017 and ends on December 15, 2017. This is a new deadline from before so mark your calendar! If you do not enroll during this time, you may be locked out of health insurance until 2019.

FACT: You can still receive financial help to make premiums and out-of-pocket costs more affordable. Last year, 8 in 10 people qualified for a discount on their premiums, and most people can find health insurance for $50 to $100/month. You won’t know unless you shop—and you may qualify for more financial help!

FACT: You can still expect to be treated fairly and protected from discrimination in health insurance AND health care. Even though we’re under attack by the Trump administration, nothing has changed when it comes to health care. You should never face health discrimination simply for being who you are. If you are mistreated, you have rights.

FACT: Health insurance can be confusing, which is why 80% of LGBTQ people want help from someone who understands their questions about, say, same-sex coverage and transition-related care. Luckily, you can get free, LGBTQ-friendly help from experts in your area thanks to our friends at Out2Enroll. Make an appointment today.

So what can you do? Two simple things.

First, make sure you and your loved ones have health insurance—if not, head to HealthCare.gov now. Fill out the application and get all the information you need.

Second, spread the word. The Trump administration won’t lift a finger to help our community—so it’s on each of us to get the word out about the December 15th deadline. Post on social media, forward this email, and make sure your loved ones are insured.   

Don’t forget—the deadline to enroll in health insurance for 2018 is December 15, 2017. Let’s take pride in our health this year and make sure we all #GetCovered

To learn more, visit Out2Enroll, the national campaign to empower LGBTQ individuals and communities to get access to health care.