Nebraska’s child care system, though crucial, faces significant challenges in attracting and retaining a skilled workforce. One of the principal barriers is the lack of adequate health care coverage. This not only affects professionals in the field, but the families they serve as well.
Lack of health care coverage information can make financial challenges worse
It is widely known that child care professionals often earn less than their counterparts in other areas of education or different industries. This disparity creates a financial strain that can make it difficult for early childhood professionals to access health care among other essential services. Many child care workers may not even realize they are potentially eligible for programs like Medicaid to pay for medical care. This can create unnecessary burdens on qualifying providers, further exacerbating turnover rates in the child care profession.
You don’t have to navigate the system alone
Navigating the requirements for Medicaid or other coverage options through the health insurance marketplace can be overwhelming. The complexities of these systems as well as their application and eligibility requirements can often lead to confusion and misinformation, making it difficult for many Nebraskans to find the support they need. Often, child care providers and families with young children require guidance to identify, understand and pursue the options that are the right fit for them.
Fortunately, there are certified Assisters at community health centers throughout the state who can help free of charge. Certified Assisters are deeply knowledgeable about Medicaid and the health insurance marketplace. These professionals are trained to help their clients understand financial assistance and coverage options, eligibility requirements and even guide them through the application process. Many are bilingual and can assist consumers in their native language. Certified assisters can be invaluable in overcoming barriers that often prevent child care professionals from accessing resources and health care coverage options.
Working with a certified Assister can save you money
Even if you do not qualify for Medicaid, you could be eligible for a plan on the health insurance marketplace. Open enrollment for the health insurance marketplace is just around the corner, so it’s good to start preparing now. The open enrollment window for coverage starting the next plan year begins on Nov. 1, 2024, and ends on Jan. 15, 2025. Most people qualify for savings based on their expected household income for the year. Depending on your income estimate, you may be eligible for a premium tax credit that lowers your monthly insurance bill, or extra savings on out-of-pocket costs like deductibles and copayments.
If you are a child care provider in Nebraska and need help finding health care coverage options, don’t hesitate to connect with a certified Assister at a local health center in or near your community. Visit howtogetcare.org to learn more.
Help get the word out
Share this information with the parents in your child care program. By spreading the word that there’s free, personalized assistance available for finding health care coverage assistance in communities across the state, we can create a more supportive environment for Nebraska’s child care providers and the families they serve.
