High crime, low student test scores and one of the poorest economic climates in the country make life significantly less enchanting for residents of The Land of Enchantment. Although New Mexican presidential selections have been historically split between the two major parties, the Democratic candidate has been chosen in six out of seven of the most recent elections. New Mexico presented no official position on the Affordable Care Act during the law’s stint in the Supreme Court even though its residents now enjoy expanded Medicaid coverage.
Enrollment through the Years
Residents of New Mexico desiring Obamacare plans may purchase them through the federal marketplace. Since 2015, increasing numbers of New Mexicans have secured marketplace coverage, with a slight dip between last year and 2017.
- 52,358 people enrolled in 2015
- 54,864 people enrolled in 2016
- 54,653 people enrolled in 2017
Among 2017 enrollees, 17,785 were new to the marketplace and 36,868 were return customers. The 2016 surge in enrollments was most likely related to concern for the 2016 presidential election and its aftermath. As is true in many states, most 2017 marketplace participants were in the 55-64 years old demographic.
Since the state expanded its Medicaid program under ACA guidelines, about 253,400 people new people have enrolled.
Cost Assistance
Cost assistance was extended to New Mexicans earning between 100 and 400 percent of the federal poverty limit in the form of federal subsidies. In 2017, 78 percent of marketplace participants received such help with monthly premiums. In the same year, 51 percent of insureds qualified for cost-sharing reductions (CSRs). The criteria for CSR assistance was earning no more than 250 percent of the federal poverty limit and selecting a silver-level health plan.
Carrier Participation & Plan Availability
In 2017, people in New Mexico could choose from 751 health plans offered by four different carriers. Not every plan is available in every county across the state. Although carrier selection is slated to be about the same for 2018 with at least three carrier options, health plan offerings may change. For this reason, New Mexicans are urged to stay informed regarding health insurance developments at both the state and county levels.
Note: The information provided on this page is constantly being updated with the latest statistical data available. Check back soon for updates.
