The uninsured tally in Arkansas was around 265,800 people in 2019, per data from Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF), which represents 9.1% of the state’s total population that year. As of 2021, KFF estimates that of the people who are still uninsured, about 122,600 qualify for marketplace health insurance.
When we say “marketplace health insurance,” we mean the kind that adheres to Affordable Care Act (ACA) rules and regulations. ACA coverage includes 10 essential health benefits, offers certain consumer protections and ensures that people with pre-existing conditions can get covered.
ACA health plans must also offer subsidies to people who qualify (those earning between 100% and 400% of the federal poverty level). That’s by law. These subsidies, also known as premium tax credits, are available to most people.
In 2021, Kaiser Family Foundation estimated that of the people who don’t have health insurance in Arkansas, 11% could use a subsidy to get a bronze plan for free (i.e., no premium).
KFF also calculated the average lowest cost health plan by metal type for this year. In Arkansas, the lowest cost averages are $322 for a bronze plan, $387 for a silver one and $499 for gold.
These averages don’t include the tax credits that might lower what you pay for coverage. If you qualify, you might save money on your premiums in Arkansas.
Using data from our own marketplace, we found that a 40-year-old living in Bradley with an income of $37,000 a year might pay as little as $222.06 a month for a bronze plan. Actual costs and coverage options will vary based on where you live.
There are at least three health insurance companies offering marketplace coverage in Arkansas in 2021. Among them are BlueCross BlueShield of Arkansas, Centene and Qualchoice.
Sources
Kaiser Family Foundation, “Health Insurance Coverage of the Total Population”
Kaiser Family Foundation, “Marketplace Eligibility Among the Uninsured: Implications for a Broadened Enrollment Period and ACA Outreach” (January 27, 2021)
Kaiser Family Foundation, “Average Marketplace Premiums by Metal Tier, 2018-2021”
Kaiser Family Foundation, “Insurer Participation on the ACA Marketplaces, 2014-2021” (November 23, 2020)