To help people better understand the Affordable Care Act and
its options, Michigan State University
Extension is hosting a series of weekly unbiased educational webinars and
launching a new website to explain changes in the insurance landscape. The
classes are free and open to the public. A current list of upcoming webinars
can be found at aca.msue.msu.edu, a
website developed by MSU Extension to guide people through complicated issues
such as insurance mandates, tax penalties, available subsidies and the
new insurance marketplace.
Through these online workshops, participants will learn how
to analyze what they need and want from healthcare providers, compare plans,
calculate how health insurance will affect their financial budgets and,
ultimately, apply the information and knowledge gained to make smart choices.
Consumer workbooks are available in Spanish and English.
“We aren’t trying to push consumers to select any one
specific plan,” said MSU Extension educator Brenda Long. “We hope to teach
people skills they can use so they can decide the plan that best fits the needs
for themselves, their families or their employees.”
Long, who is leading the MSU Extension effort, says that,
with the Affordable Care Act in the public spotlight, this is a great
opportunity to help Michigan residents take control of their personal and
family financial needs.
“Finding your way in this new landscape can be extremely
difficult, whether you’ve been insured your whole life or are faced with
finding coverage for the first time,” Long said. “Our webinars are like a map
and a compass. They empower people by eliminating the intimidation factor,
giving people answers to key questions and explaining the key steps in the
process.”
To find information about the workshops, go to aca.msue.msu.edu or contact Brenda Long at longbr@anr.msu.edu or 616-527-5357.
