To the editor:

An estimated 400,000 uninsured Virginians will become eligible for quality, low- to no-cost health insurance through the state’s New Health Coverage for Adults on Jan. 1, 2019. Applications are now being accepted.

Many of those who are newly eligible may need help completing the new application or understanding the new systems that have been created to simplify and expedite the application process. To help address this concern, the Virginia Health Care Foundation has scheduled dozens of SignUpNow workshops throughout the state to train human services professionals and others interested in assisting with applications. This includes an upcoming SignUpNow workshop in Suffolk on Dec. 7 at the Suffolk Health and Human Services Building.

VHCF’s SignUpNow workshops teach the “ins and outs” of the eligibility requirements, application procedures and post-enrollment information for Virginia’s Medicaid and FAMIS programs. These free workshops teach employees and volunteers from community service organizations, churches, schools, health care organizations and other similar agencies how to help eligible individuals and families apply for Medicaid and FAMIS, including the New Adult Coverage. Each attendee receives a comprehensive SignUpNow Tool Kit containing a variety of helpful tools, a reference manual and all essential forms, support materials and resources. With this Tool Kit and ongoing access to VHCF’s SignUpNow Helpline, attendees leave each workshop fully prepared and equipped to begin helping local residents apply for the health coverage they need.

Registration is now open for VHCF’s SignUpNow workshop at the Suffolk Health and Human Services Building in Suffolk on Dec. 7. Visit www.vhcf.org/workshops to register or learn about VHCF’s other upcoming SignUpNow workshops.

The Virginia Health Care Foundation is a non-profit public/private partnership with a mission to increase access to primary health care for uninsured and medically underserved Virginians. The Foundation was initiated by the General Assembly and its Joint Commission on Health Care in 1992. Since its inception, it has funded 407 community-based projects across the state, and its programs and partnerships have touched the lives of more than 700,000 uninsured Virginians.

For more information about VHCF and its programs, visit www.vhcf.org or call 804-828-5804.

Stephanie Buxton

Richmond