NORWICH - The Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare was launched on October 1. Open enrollment to choose a health plan began, and coverage can start as early as January 1, 2014. People who want to have health coverage by January 1, will need to complete their application by December 15, 2013.

In the Marketplace you have to sign up by the 15th of the month in order to have coverage begin on the first day of the next month. Uninsured residents can sign up for health insurance at Chenango Health Network. An official New York State of Health Navigator will assist people who would like help with the application process. There is no charge for this service. Chenango Health Network has enrolled Chenango County residents for over ten years in New York State funded insurance and will continue their confidential, free and expert services with the new Affordable Care Act health insurance.

Help with insurance bills: For the first time ever, many New Yorkers will have help paying for a health plan. This help puts health insurance within more people’s reach. A wide range of people can get this kind of help — from an individual earning $45,960 to a family of four making $94,200.

Support for the “extras”: It’s not just the monthly insurance bill that’s a burden. It’s extras like “co-pays”— the part of a medical bill that’s charged to you, not your insurance company — and “deductibles,” the amount you must pay before your insurance kicks in. If your income falls below a certain point, NY State of Health will help you pay for these “extra” costs.