Get America Covered 

The health insurance marketplace can be overwhelming to many individuals but getting coverage is critical –particularly for those with substance abuse issues, a mental health diagnosis or a chronic medical condition. On Friday January 30^th NCS hosted a health insurance enrollment event at Newark City Hall with the non-profit program Enroll America.  Through their nonpartisan “Get America Covered” campaign, Enroll America aims to engage directly with citizens to raise awareness about new health insurance options under the Affordable Care Act.  Over the course of the day, 14 current and former NCS clients were seen, plus a friend of client who came down as well. In total 13 individuals were signed up for insurance on the spot and two with cases already pending were given instructions about what supporting documents were still needed, and told where to report to complete the enrollment process.  Despite a snowy start to the day, the event was a success and NCS looks forward to working with Enroll America again soon!  

Interesting article about the challenges individuals face when trying to get a bed at a detox or inpatient treatment facility as well as possible reforms on the horizon in New Jersey to expedite the process for those in need

http://www.wnyc.org/story/addiction-services-where-chris-christie-and-obamacare-see-eye-eye/