The Affordable Care Act (ACA) Marketplace open enrollment period runs from November 1, 2026, through January 15, 2027, in most states. This is an opportunity to compare health insurance plans, review benefits and understand potential costs before choosing coverage for the year ahead.

For people living with obesity, insurance coverage can affect access to healthcare providers, prescription medications and other treatment options. Taking time to review your options can help you make informed decisions about your care.

What Should You Look for in a Health Insurance Plan?

Not all health insurance plans cover the same services or treatments. Before enrolling, review these key areas:

  • Prescription medications: Check your plan’s drug formulary to see whether your medications are covered, what restrictions apply and how much you may pay. Coverage for obesity medications, including GLP-1 medications, varies by plan and intended use.
  • Obesity care services: Review coverage for nutrition counseling, behavioral health services, metabolic and bariatric surgery, endoscopic and other treatments that may be part of your care.
  • Healthcare providers: Confirm that your primary care provider and specialists are in your plan’s network.
  • Out-of-pocket costs: Compare monthly premiums, deductibles, copayments and coinsurance to understand what you may pay throughout the year.
  • Plan changes: If you already have insurance, check for changes to your benefits, prescription coverage, provider networks and costs for 2027.A lower monthly premium does not always mean lower overall healthcare costs. Consider your healthcare needs and budget when comparing plans.

Know Your Open Enrollment Deadlines

In most states, ACA Marketplace open enrollment runs from November 1, 2026, through January 15, 2027. To generally have coverage begin January 1, 2027, you must enroll by December 15, 2026. Plans selected later during open enrollment generally begin February 1.

Deadlines may vary by state. Visit HealthCare.gov or your state’s Marketplace website to confirm your deadlines and explore available plans.

After open enrollment ends, you generally must qualify for a Special Enrollment Period to enroll in or change Marketplace coverage. Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) accept applications year-round for eligible individuals and families.

Explore OAC’s Insurance Coverage Guides

OAC has developed two quick-reference guides to help you understand coverage requirements, potential costs and steps you can take to advocate for your care.

These resources can help you ask informed questions, understand your benefits and take the next steps if coverage is denied.