Georgia Launches State Health Insurance Exchange

Starting November 1, Georgia will transition its health insurance marketplace from HealthCare.gov to a new state-operated platform called Georgia Access. This change, confirmed by the U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, aims to reduce reliance on the federal government and expand access to affordable health coverage. Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner John King emphasized that Georgia Access will be the first state-based exchange to collaborate with private sector companies for enrollment, enhancing coverage options for residents. Governor Brian Kemp stated that this initiative has been a top priority for his administration to improve the healthcare landscape in Georgia. The decision follows years of political debate surrounding the Affordable Care Act, with many residents previously relying on the federal site for health insurance. Moving forward, Georgians will need to use the new portal, GeorgiaAccess.gov, to enroll in their health coverage plans.