~ Boston, MA - Federal changes to the health care system are causing concern for residents in Boston and across the nation. These changes, which include increased premiums, limited insurance eligibility, and decreased funding, are making it even more difficult for individuals and families to access affordable health care. In response to these challenges, Mayor Michelle Wu, the City of Boston, and the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) are urging residents to take advantage of the various coverage options available in Massachusetts.

According to Dr. Bisola Ojikutu, Commissioner of Public Health for the City of Boston, "Health insurance is the most powerful tool that we have to ensure access to primary care, emergency care, and treatment for chronic diseases." She emphasizes that Massachusetts has been a leader in expanding access to affordable health insurance coverage and wants residents to know that there are resources available to help navigate the system and secure coverage.

One such resource is the Massachusetts Health Connector, a state-based health insurance Marketplace that offers affordable options for individuals, families, and small businesses. Through this platform, people can compare plans, apply for subsidies to lower premiums, review eligibility for State programs like MassHealth (Medicaid) and the Health Safety Net, and manage existing coverage. The Open Enrollment period runs from November 1st 2025 until January 23rd 2026. Additionally, individuals and families can enroll within 60 days of a qualifying life event such as losing job-based coverage or having a child.

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For those who need assistance with applying for health insurance through the state's marketplace, they can turn to the Mayor's Health Line (MHL). This free and confidential service operated by BPHC provides information and referrals in multiple languages including English, Spanish, Portuguese Haitian Creole and Cape Verdean Creole through multilingual staff or a language line service. Residents can call MHL at 617-534-5050 Monday-Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Audrey Morse Gasteier, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Health Connector, highlights the importance of having health insurance. "Having health insurance means the ability to put the health and financial security of yourself and your family first," she says. "It means you can take care of annual physicals, screenings, prescriptions for chronic disease, and other ways of staying healthy without worrying about costly trade-offs."

In addition to MHL, there are other resources available for those seeking assistance with enrolling in health insurance. Local community health centers, hospitals, community-based organizations, and walk-in Enrollment Centers are all equipped to help individuals navigate the process. A list of nearby enrollment locations can be found on the Health Connector's website.

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For residents who are 65 years or older or have qualifying disabilities, Medicare Open Enrollment runs from October 15th 2025 until December 7th 2025. They can sign up for coverage directly through the federal government-run marketplace at medicare.gov. The City of Boston's Age Strong Commission also offers trained SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Everyone) counselors who can assist with navigating Medicare. The commission is hosting over 20 free in-person Medicare Open Enrollment clinics across Boston and appointments can be made by calling Age Strong at 617-635-4366.

In light of the federal changes that are threatening access to health care, it is crucial for residents in Boston to take advantage of the resources available to them and secure affordable coverage through Massachusetts' various options. Mayor Wu and city officials urge residents to act during this Open Enrollment period and prioritize their health and well-being by obtaining necessary health insurance coverage.

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