Health Insurance Marketplaces

Created under the Affordable Care Act, health insurance marketplaces (also known as exchanges) help Americans gain access to affordable health insurance. The marketplaces can help people without health insurance enroll in health coverage. Depending on household income and other factors, individuals and families may be able to get assistance in paying for that coverage. All marketplace plans must provide free preventive care and cover pre-existing conditions, as well as offer essential health benefitHealth care items or services covered by health plans. Examples include emergency services, hospitalization, prescription drugs, laboratory services and wellness visits.s. Health care items or services covered by health plans. Examples include emergency services, hospitalization, prescription drugs, laboratory services and wellness visits. Health care items or services covered by health plans. Examples include emergency services, hospitalization, prescription drugs, laboratory services and wellness visits. Benefits like emergency services, mental health services, prescription drugs and maternity care.

Trained individuals and organizations authorized in each state—known as navigators, in-person assistors and certified application counselors—help individuals and families find a marketplace plan that best fits their needs. To learn about those who are authorized in your state to help you find marketplace coverage, visit Find Local Help at HealthCare.gov.