Federal health care reform known as the Patient Protection and Affordability Care Act just passed and will allow people up to age 26 to stay on their parents' health plans if they so choose. You will no longer loose coverage simply because you "age off" your parents' plan at age 19 or stop being a full-time student. Below are some answers to frequently asked questions about how federal reform will affect coverage for young adults and how it dovetails with the State of Vermont’s Green Mountain Care health plans.

When does this part of the law take effect?

The start date varies depending upon when your family plan renews after September 23, 2010 (the implementation date for this provision of the law). For many people the renewal date will occur January 1, 2011. For others it could take up to a year.

I’m graduating now. Is there anything for me now?

Some plans will allow dependents under age 26, who are currently on their parents’ plan, to remain on their parents’ plans – even before the law takes effect. Check with your health plan to learn how this provision affects you.

What if I am under age 26 and not currently on my family’s plan?

If you are under age 26 and you are not on your family’s plan – and you do not have access to health insurance through a job – you may be added to your family’s plan when the next renewal occurs.   In the meanwhile you may be eligible for a Green Mountain Care health plan.

What if it is too expensive to be added to my family’s plan? 

In some cases, adding a young adult dependent to a parent’s plan will cause a single plan to become a two-person plan, or a two-person plan to become a family plan.   This most likely will mean an increase in monthly premiums. Parents are not required to add dependents to their plan.   Dependents may be eligible for a Green Mountain Care plan.

I don't have insurance.  What's available to me?

Green Mountain Care is a family of plans that include Catamount Health, Vermont Health Access Plan (VHAP), Dr. Dynasaur, Medicaid, and a number of pharmacy assistance and premium assistance programs.  Catamount Health is offered in partnership with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont and MVP Health Care.

There may be a program for you, no matter how much you earn. Call 1-800-250-8427 or complete the Green Mountain Care Screening Tool to find out which plan is right for you!

For more information about the Patient Protection and Affordability Act, contact the Vermont Department of Banking, Insurance, Security and Health Care at http://www.bishca.state.vt.us/health-care/consumer-information/understanding-patient-protection-and-affordable-care-act .

 Green Mountain Care: Because You Don't Want  Minor Health Issues to Turn into Major Problems.