April 01, 2014 03:58 PM UTC

277,000 Enrolled and Counting Shows Affordable Care Act Helps Coloradans, Here to Stay

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• by: ProtectCareCo

(Promoted by Colorado Pols)

The latest reports on the Affordable Care Act indicate that more than seven million Americans have enrolled nationally. For Colorado, newly-released metrics from the state exchange, ConnectforHealthCo.com, show that 277,000 Coloradans have enrolled, more than 118,000 through private insurance plans and more than 158,000 through the state’s Medicaid expansion.
 
According to Laura Chapin, Colorado State Director for Protect Your Care, "With 277,000 Coloradans, and counting, now enrolled in health care coverage this is proof that the Affordable Care Act works and that it's providing much-needed relief for thousands of families. The predictions of an enrollment surge proved to be true, and increasing numbers of young people are signing up as well. In one story posted today, a Colorado Young Invincible is getting health insurance for 77 CENTS a month!"

My friend had told me that I needed to be denied Medicaid before I could apply for financial assistance through Connect for Health Colorado, so I already had my denial number when I met with the health coverage guide. I was ready to start shopping! I needed the peace of mind of knowing that if something happens, I’m covered. Given my projected income, the health coverage guide said I was eligible for $150.00 in tax credits! I am paying 77 cents a month for my plan and $15/month for dental! What a relief! I was so worried I would not be able to afford a plan and have to risk it. I can happily say that I found an affordable plan that meets my needs. I know that accidents can happen and probably would not have been able to enjoy climbing and snowboarding the way I do now if I didn’t have insurance.

Despite the sabotage, the ads, the naysayers, and fifty votes by Republicans like Congressmen Cory Gardner and Mike Coffman to get rid of it, the Affordable Care Act is here to stay. Thousands of Coloradans now have health care and the peace of mind that comes with it. And nobody can or should try to take that away from them.