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Trump administration begins sweeping layoffs with probationary workers, warns of larger cuts to come; NYC music school teachers strike after union negotiations break down; Ohio advocates push for inclusive policies during Black History Month; Health experts recommend sunshine, socializing to cure 'winter blues.'

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Federal workers tasked with securing elections from foreign interference are placed on leave, parents' organizations reject dismantling Dept. of Education, and the Congressional Black Caucus presses discussions on slavery reparations.

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Rural America struggles with opioids and homelessness in unexpected ways, Colorado's Lariat Ditch could help spur local recreation, and book deliveries revive rural communities hit by Hurricane Helene.

Gearing Up for Iowa's Health Insurance Marketplace

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Wednesday, August 21, 2013   

DES MOINES, Iowa - Iowa officials and federal authorities still are putting the final touches on the health-insurance marketplaces, where people without health coverage or those paying high rates can shop for more affordable policies, with some of the costs possibly paid by the government.

The enrollment period for the marketplaces begins Oct. 1.

Jon Bailey, director of research and analysis for the Center for Rural Affairs, said his group has been taking many questions by email and on its website from rural residents - and the first one is almost always the same.

"Probably the biggest question we get," he said, "is just the basic question, 'How are the health insurance marketplaces going to work? How do I buy insurance?' Probably followed up by, 'How much of a subsidy will I get to help me purchase insurance?' "

Iowans don't have to make up their minds immediately. They can take their time choosing the policy that best fits their needs.

"The open-enrollment period on the health-insurance marketplaces starts Oct. 1," Bailey said. "The requirement that everybody have health insurance kicks in on Jan. 1, 2014, so you have three months to meet that requirement."

Whether or not people qualify for a subsidy depends on their income, and online calculators are available. Bailey said the Center for Rural Affairs also has posted answers to some of the common questions on its website, cfra.org.

More information on subsidies is online at files.cfra.org and one subsidy calculator is at kff.org.


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