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GO LOCAL

Local guidance available at no cost can be invaluable when it comes to selecting an ACA plan for 2026.

For anyone sourcing health insurance via the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, narrowing down the choices and then picking one that makes sense for you and perhaps your family can be confusing. Do you choose a plan based on cost? Do you pick based on hospitals and doctors? Is there an option to incorporate both a budget-friendly plan and one that meets your personal health needs? 


Having a local licensed insurance agent in your corner like Scott McEvoy, of HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, or a member of his team can be a helpful resource. 


Because they’re located in Northeast Ohio, they may be familiar with local hospital systems, provider networks and how plan choices could affect your access to care. “Rather than trying to decipher your options via a national call center or online portal, we’re right here in your area,” Scott says. “We understand this region and know the local healthcare providers and hospital networks that may be exclusive to Northeast Ohio. Because we’re so deeply enmeshed with the local community, we can provide options for you to consider that ensure your coverage needs fit your lifestyle and healthcare requirements.”


Open Enrollment for a plan under the ACA happens Saturday, November 1 until Monday, December 15 for a January 1 effective date.


It’s Personal

Choosing a healthcare plan under the ACA is a personal decision and your choice needs to reflect your unique situation. No matter what your personal needs are, whether individual or family, Scott or a member of his team offer one-on-one consultations and take the time to explain the different plan options to you. 


“People appreciate the personal attention they get from us,” Scott explains. “You can certainly go it alone, but why would you when you have someone in your corner who understands insurance coverage?”


Scott or one of his team members can help you compare the options that make the most sense to you, whether that includes plans with low deductibles, a wide network of doctors, plans with affordable prescription drug coverage, or a combination of all three.


Are Subsidies Still a Thing?

With changes to the ACA happening every year, you might be wondering if your eligibility for a subsidy still exists, or you’re wondering about the right steps to take to apply for your subsidy and any applicable deadlines. Scott or a member of his team can help you to understand your eligibility and ensure you receive the financial support available to you.


“Subsidies can represent significant cost savings, so we’ll help to ensure you don’t miss out on any opportunities,” Scott says.


2026 Changes

Typically, the ACA market is host to an annual slew of changes, and 2026 is no exception. Here is a list of some of the changes (Source: cms.gov/newsroom/fact-sheets/hhs-notice-benefit-and-payment-parameters-2026-final-rule) you might expect to see applied to your plan of choice:

• Monthly plan costs could increase due to changing market conditions and adjustments to premium tax credits.

• Annual income must be verified.

• Coverage must be renewed during Open Enrollment to keep any federal financial support.


Ongoing Support

Once you’ve selected your healthcare plan for 2026, you can comfortably navigate the year ahead. However, because Scott and his team handle a variety of health insurance plans, you can turn to one of them for guidance anytime throughout the year. If you encounter any issues with your ACA plan, such as with billing, or your healthcare needs change, Scott or a member of his team is available to help make sure you have the necessary support.

FEATURED

Why you should plan for Medicare

By Scott McEvoy • June 10, 2026
Six months before turning 65 is a good time to begin learning what to expect from Medicare, including deadlines for enrollment and the types of plan options that may be available, as well as how Medicare compares to employer-sponsored coverage.

Do you remember June 1979?

By Scott McEvoy • June 10, 2026
If you attended high school in 1979, you are likely nearing age 65, the point when you’ll start making decisions about your Medicare options.

Why You Should Plan for Medicare

By Scott McEvoy • May 29, 2026
Once you hit a certain age, the idea of retirement is never really far from mind. Last month we talked about short-term medical coverage as one possible option to help bridge the health coverage gap between leaving your current employment and becoming eligible for Medicare during retirement. But securing interim coverage, if needed, is just a small part of preparing for Medicare. Six months before turning 65 is a good time to begin learning what to expect from Medicare, including deadlines for enrollment and the types of plan options that may be available, as well as how Medicare compares to employer-sponsored coverage. Many people don’t realize they may continue to work for their current employer if they’ve reached age 65 and still be on Medicare. In some situations, individuals may find that Medicare offers different coverage features than an employer‑sponsored plan, which can be worth understanding when evaluating healthcare options. Some people who switch to Medicare while still working may find their coverage needs are met differently than under an employer-sponsored plan. For example, certain Medicare plans may include additional benefits or features beyond what some employer plans offer. I’m available as a resource to share general Medicare information and help explain Medicare basics. I offer a Medicare 101 educational class for people who are newly 65 or about to turn 65, presented in an easy-to-understand format. Give me a call to schedule a time to meet or set up a time to attend the class, and, as always, my guidance is available at no cost to you. HealthMarkets Insurance Agency is located at 9551 Vista Way in Garfield Hts. To reach Scott McEvoy or a member of his team, call 216-815-1850. Virtual, phone and office appointments are available. HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, Inc. is licensed as an insurance agency nationwide except in MA. Not all agents are licensed to sell all products. Service and product availability may vary by state. Agents may be compensated based on enrollment. No obligation to enroll. 53164-HM-0426

Short-term medical options

May 5, 2026
Short-term coverage may be an option for college students who are home for the summer, working temporary jobs, or who may experience a gap in coverage if they are no longer enrolled in a school-sponsored health plan.

Do you remember May 1979?

May 5, 2026
If you attended high school in 1979, you are likely nearing age 65, the point when you’ll start making decisions about your Medicare options.

Can you pay less for Parts B & D?

April 10, 2026
If your income is above a certain threshhold, you may be required to pay higher Medicare Part B and/or Part D premiums.

Do you remember April 1979?

April 10, 2026
If you attended high school in 1979, you are likely nearing age 65, the point when you will start making decisions about your Medicare options.

A way to spend your refund

March 11, 2026
Life insurance is protection.

Do you remember March 1979?

March 11, 2026
If you attended high school in 1979, you are likely nearing age 65, the point when you will start making decisions about your Medicare options.

Let’s review your healthcare

February 11, 2026
HealthMarkets Insurance Agency offers health care options from numerous different recognized carriers, and we’ve helped thousands of people choose health care options that best represents their individual and family needs.