MATCH Covid-19 Updates

In response to Covid-19, MATCH is committed to the health of our clients and staff. Until further notice, we have suspended all in person appointments and co-locations. We will continue to provide services via phone and email interviews. Our priority is to remain accessible and connect our participants to the resources needed to be healthy throughout the coming months.

For Immediate Release
February 3, 2021

New Health Coverage Open Enrollment Opportunity, MATCH is ready to help!

Marion, NC – People have a new opportunity to enroll in health insurance for 2021 on HealthCare.gov, but only for a limited time. This new COVID-19 open enrollment period starts on February 15, 2021 and ends on May 15, 2021.

With job losses continuing to mount amid the COVID-19 resurgence, and millions of people having lost their job-based health insurance since the start of this public health and economic crisis, the Biden Administration has opened up HealthCare.gov to give people who need health insurance a new opportunity to get covered, but they must act quickly.

“More than 535, 803 North Carolinians enrolled in a health insurance plan during open enrollment. There’s a new chance for people to sign up, and anyone who needs health insurance should contact our team for enrollment assistance. Our Healthcare Navigators are federally certified and provide free unbiased education and application assistance”, said Amy Stevens, MATCH Program Director.

Health insurance is more affordable than many people think. In NC, 83% of current marketplace consumers had plans available for 2021 that cost less than $50 per month, after financial help. 9 out of ten marketplace enrollees in NC received financial help that lowered their monthly health insurance premiums last year. In addition, 57 percent of enrollees also qualified for lower out-of-pocket costs for health care services.

“Many people can find good deals in the Marketplace and receive financial assistance to help lower their monthly health insurance costs.”

Consumers enrolling in a plan on HealthCare.gov are guaranteed to receive comprehensive coverage, with no pre-existing condition exclusions or markups. All plans cover essential benefits, including doctor and hospital visits, prescription drugs, mental health treatment, and maternity care. In addition, consumers receive free preventive care services, such as immunizations and health screenings. Testing and treatment of COVID-19 are considered essential health benefits and are covered by all Marketplace plans.

Consumers should avoid insurance plans offered outside of HealthCare.gov that seem too good to be true. “Junk insurance” products pose huge financial risks to consumers. These products can refuse to pay for care for pre-existing conditions, charge consumers more based on their gender, and impose annual coverage limits.

“HealthCare.gov is the only website where North Carolina consumers are guaranteed to get comprehensive coverage,” said Stevens. “Consumers buying junk plans will be exposed to serious risks. The MATCH federally certified Navigators are ready to provide unbiased education, outreach, and enrollment assistance to help our community get covered”

To learn more or for enrollment assistance and questions, contact our team for an appointment: 828-659-5289.

Get your Enrollment Packet
Either by downloading the packet by clicking here or by calling us on 828 659 5289. Our team will send your packet via mail.
2. Contact the MATCH team for a phone interview
Once you have received the packet, contact MATCH to schedule a phone appointment. Our team will walk you through the packet, complete a needs assessment, and discuss ways we can help support your health and well being.
Send the packet back to MATCH
Once we receive your enrollment packet and consents, our team will process and mail your enrollment letter, MATCH Handbook, and begin connecting you to resources and support.

Food Box Deliveries

In response to Covid-19, MATCH is proud to partner with McDowell Transit, Foothills FoodHub, and McDowell LFAC to provide food box deliveries to those in our community facing transportation barriers. To request a box, call 828.659.5289 or submit your information by clicking here. A MATCH team member will reach out to confirm your delivery and discuss other support options. Please note: Deliveries are made each Tuesday and Friday between 9-1pm. Submissions and requests must be made before 10am on Monday or Thursday.

Food Distribution List

Click here for a current list of food distribution sites

MATCH COVId-19 Emergency Response Funds

If you have been financially impacted by COVID-19 and need assistance paying for utility bills, medication, transportation, or other needs, contact out team today: 828-659-5289.

McDowell Access To Care & Health

Reducing health disparities for the uninsured and underinsured by facilitating access to the services people need to get well, be well, and stay well.

MATCH creates space and provides services for all people regardless of gender, race, national origin, religious beliefs, age, marital status, disability, or sexual orientation.