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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsNeed help understanding this about Boehner and his attempt to get Insurance on the DC exchange:
How was John Boehner, who I'm assuming is a resident of Ohio (8th district) able to sign up for health insurance on the DC exchange? This perked my curiosity after reading Steve Benen's post about the Speakers experience. http://www.msnbc.com/rachel-maddow-show/boehner-proves-the-wrong-point
Like many Americans, my experience was pretty frustrating. After putting in my personal information, I received an error message. I was able to work past that, but when I went to actually sign up for coverage, I got this internal server error screen. [ ]
Despite multiple attempts, I was unable to get past that point and sign up for a health plan. Weve got a call into the help desk. Guess Ill just have to keep trying
As it turns out, his willingness to keep trying was a good idea. Boehner, who is not yet eligible for Medicare, called the DC Health Link help line, and a few hours later, the process was complete. Hed signed up for health insurance.
Oddly enough, the Republican House Speaker didnt offer any details about his new health care plan. One would assume that if hed experienced sticker shock, or been stuck choosing a plan that cost far more than his current coverage, Boehner would have mentioned it. Indeed, he would have been eager to mention it, since it would advance his larger political goals.
So why was Boehner silent on this point? Probably because he was able to save some money on an affordable plan despite being a 64-year-old chain-smoker.
The Speaker provides a screen shot:
it's my understanding that the federal site directs you to a state site. If a state isn't participating you stay on the federal site.
Does he claim DC residency? If so, how can he claim to represent Ohio's 6th district? Does he have dual residency? Is that possible for a speaker of the house?
If anyone from Ohio could explain, I would appreciate it -- or for that matter -- anyone in general. I don't understand how someone from out of state -- Especially a state like Ohio, I've read that they are entering the Medicaid expansion, but I am not sure if they are planning on a state exchange. I'm under the impression that's not going to happen anytime soon.
It's my understanding that states with no exchange are required to the federal website.
I hope this makes sense. Thanks in advance!
Raine
JaneyVee
(19,877 posts)JNelson6563
(28,151 posts)PoliticAverse
(26,366 posts)Raine1967
(11,589 posts)I appreciate that article very much. This was interesting:
It seems safe to assume that this was a political stunt. (another suspicion I had) I did want to understand why he was using the DC exchange. It appears he really didn't have to do that at all.
Lawmakers and the employees who work in their official offices will receive coverage next year through the small-business marketplace of the local insurance exchange, known as D.C. Health Link, which has staff members close at hand for guidance.
D.C. Health Link set up shop right here in Congress, said Eleanor Holmes Norton, the delegate to the House from the nations capital.
Insurers routinely offer member services to enrollees. But on Capitol Hill, the phrase has special meaning, indicating concierge-type services for members of Congress.
You rock PoliticAverse.
global1
(25,294 posts)I'm thinking that he had one of his office staff do this. I can't see him spending 45 minutes on his own trying to do this.
Do you think he is computer savvy enough to take a screen shot?
Raine1967
(11,589 posts)So, yes, my question was approached from that information.
He signed up to DC health link and he is a resident of Ohio -- I was looking for clarification about residency, etc. It was answered with a very informative article.
What you may think I think wasn't really part of why I asked the question in my op. I think we all can agree he's a jerk.
JNinWB
(250 posts)For most customers, the insurers assume that you will seek care close to your residence. If you live in a high-income area of the state, your premium can vary greatly from people who live in a low-income area.
The difference between Orange Cy (CA) and Riverside Cy. For Federal employees who live part time in WA and part time in their districts need an insurer who offers coverage in both areas.
FarCenter
(19,429 posts)and their designated staff must purchase health plans offered by an appropriate SHOP as
determined by the Director [of OPM] ... in order to receive an employer contribution toward the
coverage.14 OPM has indicated that Members and staff must use the District of Columbias SHOP
exchange (DC Health Link).15
http://www.fas.org/sgp/crs/misc/R43194.pdf