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There are several opportunities for Chicagoans who still haven’t signed up for health insurance to do so before the March 31 deadline.
“March 31 could be the most important deadline of your life if you are African American,” Dr. Robert Winn, associate vice president for community-based practice at the University of Illinois Hospital & Health Sciences System said in a recent press release.
“African Americans carry a disproportionate burden of disease,” Winn said. “They have some of the highest rates of diabetes and hypertension, and carry the highest likelihood of developing cancer compared to other racial groups.
“If you are African American, there’s an overwhelming chance that you’ll be affected by disease. Enrolling in health insurance through the Affordable Care Act is an opportunity that just cannot be missed.”
Americans who don’t sign up for health insurance by Monday’s deadline will pay a penalty on their 2014 income taxes.
UI Health’s Get Insured program offers free assistance in signing up for health insurance through specially trained certified application counselors who help navigate the enrollment website and answer questions.
They are available at the hospital, its outpatient care center and at several UI Health Mile Square Health Center locations throughout Chicago. Appointments can be scheduled with UI Health’s certified application counselors by calling (866) 600-CARE.
Here are some events where you can also sign up:
*Friday, Saturday and Sunday (March 28-30) from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at The Black Woman Expo, McCormick Place, 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive.
*Thursday (March 27) from 4 to 7 p.m. at BUILD, 5100 W. Harrison.
*Sunday (March 30) from noon to 4 p.m. at Loretto Hospital, 645 S. Central Ave.
*Monday (March 31) from 3 to 6 p.m. at state Rep. Camille Lilly’s office, 5755 W. Division St.
Bring Social Security or legal immigrant document numbers, income verification (pay stubs, W-2 form), and any current health insurance information for all household members.