Delta Area Economic Opportunity Corporation (DAEOC) Community Action Agency today announced it has been awarded a grant from the Missouri Foundation for Health as part of the Cover Missouri Expanding Coverage through Consumer Assistance project. The project is dedicated to providing crucial in‐person support for consumers seeking information about the federal health insurance Marketplace and to promote quality, affordable health coverage for every Missourian. The Cover Missouri Coalition aims to reduce the rate of uninsured Missourians to less than five percent in the next five years.
DAEOC is partnering with East Missouri Action Agency, South Central Missouri Community Action Agency and Ozark Action, Inc. to serve the Southeast region of the state. Consumers are subject to a tax penalty when filing their federal income taxes in 2015 if they do not have health insurance. The penalty will be a flat rate or a percentage of their income; the exact amount depends on family size. To avoid the penalty, Missourians have until March 31, 2014 to obtain coverage.
"It's more important now than ever for us to be in the community talking about the Marketplace and helping people understand their coverage options, " said Mona Walls, Southeast Region Hub Manager, DAEOC. "The March 31 deadline is fast approaching and we are prepared to help Bootheel residents complete the online Marketplace application and see their options so that they can make the best decision regarding their health care."
Premium tax credits and cost‐sharing reductions are available to help make health care more affordable. This financial help uses a sliding scale, so families making less money pay a smaller amount for health insurance and health care. Consumers will see if they qualify for financial help and how much they can save when they fill out the Marketplace application.
"DAEOC is dedicated to removing barriers that limit access to healthcare coverage options," said DAEOC President and CEO Joel Evans. "Our licensed staff members are available to present to your community or organization."
To schedule an appointment or for more information, call:
* Dunklin and Pemiscot Counties: Sasha Oliver at 573‐359‐1030, 315 E. Broadway, Hayti
* Scott, Stoddard and Mississippi counties: C.J. Smallwood at 573‐471‐4114 on Tuesdays, 573‐379‐3851, Ext. 248 on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 820 Anderson, Sikeston
* New Madrid county: Mona Walls at 573‐379‐3851, Ext. 211 99 Skyview Road, Portageville
Educational materials are also available at all DAEOC Outreach locations and the Central Office in Portageville.