Jacksonville residents without health insurance may find solace in the city's latest effort, the 2024 Get Covered Jax! campaign. Launched by Mayor Donna Deegan and city healthcare leaders, the initiative aims to simplify the enrollment process into private healthcare plans. Last year's campaign yielded a 34% drop in the number of uninsured citizens in Duval County, a notable achievement for the local administration.
“One of the top priorities of my administration is building a healthier city and making sure every resident has access to quality health care,” Mayor Deegan stated, as reported by the City of Jacksonville's official news release. The campaign is scheduled to run from November 1, through January 15, 2025, with the goal to further reduce the number of uninsured, which currently stands at approximately 86,274 adults aged 19-65, or roughly 14.2% of that demographic in Duval County.
What the Get Covered Jax! campaign ultimately seeks, is to inform residents about the importance and benefits of having health insurance. This includes clarifying eligibility requirements, coverage options, and instructions for maneuvering the Florida Health Insurance Marketplace. Dr. Sunil Joshi, Chief Health Officer for the City of Jacksonville, emphasized the accessible nature of these plans by saying “Folks can no longer be denied coverage simply due to pre-existing conditions” and that “insured individuals have more access to primary preventive care compared to those who are uninsured.”
City officials are not alone in their mission to connect community members with health insurance; faith-based leaders, community healthcare providers, and local media are collaborating to maximize the campaign's reach. A notable event is set to take place on November 12, where a phone bank, in partnership with WJXT-TV, will to actively help answer questions from 12-7pm about the enrollment process.
