WUFT-TV/FM | WJUF-FM
1200 Weimer Hall | P.O. Box 118405
Gainesville, FL 32611
(352) 392-5551

A service of the College of Journalism and Communications at the University of Florida.

© 2024 WUFT / Division of Media Properties
News and Public Media for North Central Florida
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations

Health Care Enrollment Reaches 6 Million Nationwide as Deadline Looms

People signing up for health care under the Affordable Care Act through the open enrollment period must do so before midnight tomorrow.

So far six million people have already signed up, according to Reuters. This is reportedly a last-minute surge from the administration's estimated five million that were enrolled 10 days ago.

More than 440,000 Floridians have enrolled for healthcare coverage, according to the latest report from the Department of Health and Human Services, making up about 7 percent of people enrolled. Their statistics are current as of March 1.

Lauren Vagelakos, project coordinator for the Health Insurance Marketplace Navigator Program for North Central Florida, said her program has enrolled about 500 people since last February.

However, Vagelakos said that number isn't indicative of overall numbers for North Central Florida because navigators only enroll people who are unable to use the website. She estimates the navigation program will have enrolled between 650 and 700 people by tonight's deadline.

Those who have trouble signing on to the HealthCare.gov website will have the deadline extended into April, according to Fox News.

There are also exceptions allowing for sign-up throughout the year, including special enrollment periods and qualifying life events.

Cyanne is a reporter for WUFT News and can be contacted by calling 352-392-6397 or emailing news@wuft.org.