Pathways to Coverage: Helping DACA Recipients Access Health Coverage through Marketplace Enrollment

In a significant shift towards immigrant rights and healthcare access, recent changes in federal legislation now make it possible for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients to enroll in health insurance coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. As of November 2024, DACA recipients will, for the first time, be eligible to apply for healthcare plans, opening doors to quality, affordable healthcare that can support their long-term well-being.

Pathways to Coverage is dedicated to helping underserved communities navigate complex healthcare processes and access essential resources. With this legislative change, the program will be expanding its services to ensure that DACA recipients receive support, resources, and guidance throughout the enrollment period. Our team of Navigators is committed to assisting this community in understanding their coverage options, comparing plans, and selecting the best fit based on their healthcare needs.

Beginning late August, the Pathways program expanded its reach to serve beyond Bexar, across 34 counties in South Texas. With this expansion, we are uniquely positioned to offer enrollment assistance to DACA recipients in regions previously underserved, including the Rio Grande Valley and the Texas Coastal Bend.

“Dreamers are our neighbors and friends; they are students, teachers, social workers, doctors, and nurses. More importantly, they are fellow Americans,” said Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. “More than one third of DACA recipients currently do not have health insurance, so making them eligible to enroll in coverage will improve their health and wellbeing, and help the overall economy.”

Our team of Healthcare Navigators offers free services that include:

• Guidance on Eligibility and Documentation: Educating DACA recipients on the requirements needed for Marketplace enrollment, including identification, income, and legal status documentation.

• Personalized Plan Comparison: Helping applicants understand different plan options, monthly premiums, and co-pay structures to select the most affordable and suitable option.

• Multilingual Support: Ensuring language is not a barrier, with support available in Spanish and other languages to address the needs of South Texas’ diverse population.

• Enrollment Assistance: Assisting with the enrollment process step-by-step to ensure timely and accurate completion.

  
  

This change in legislation marks an essential step in broadening access to healthcare for thousands of individuals in Texas and beyond. The open enrollment period is currently active and will close on January 15. For plans to begin on January 1, however, individuals must enroll by December 15. Pathways to Coverage encourages all eligible DACA recipients to take advantage of this historic opportunity.

For additional information or to schedule an appointment for enrollment assistance, please contact the Pathways to Coverage at (210)761-3420 or at www.pathwaystocoverage.net.