Bebe Stanley, NM created on Mon March 31, 2014

On October 1st I went to the NM Human Services Department in order to get information regarding Obamacare.

I have to admit, I did not know anything about the new Affordable Care Act. Previously, I had the chance to talk to the Human Services Department about receiving food stamps. I did ask for more information at that time about how to enroll into Medicaid and I was told to call on October 1, 2013 to enroll.

So there I was at the front desk of the NM Human Services Department asking the guard for the form. He told me, "we have nothing about Obamacare."  Persistent and unrelenting, I insisted to see somebody.

There was a long wait. The first man I saw, although nice, was unable to assist me with information on the Affordable Care Act.

Again, there was a long wait and another nice young man helps me. He was very compassionate and was trying his best to get me the services I needed. Although, it was equally as difficult to get precise information for him.

I was eventually enrolled in "something." They told me I should hear from them between October 15th and November 1st. After which I was to choose a plan. It was, however, unclear when I would know if I was enrolled or not.

At least I was in the system and met the criteria for help: 53 years old, low income.

So, time passed and I seemed to get lucky again. A woman from the Human Services called me in early november to check my address. This is a call from heaven knowing they can call you but you cannot call them. I was told during the interview it was nearly IMPOSSIBLE to call and talk to a real human being.

I then asked her for more information regarding my enrollment. She answered, "You have been enrolled in Family Planning Medicaid and you will be switched on January 1, 2014 to Medicaid". 

Although I wasn't able to get clear information, I still understood I would get a Medicaid card on January 1st and that I would have to choose from one of health plans at that time. I was only informed that the Medicaid card/coverage will be valid up to december 2014.

By early November I did in fact get a letter stating I was enrolled in Family Planning Medicaid. Now if I get sick, I have coverage to get healthy!