The District of Columbia (D.C.) Coverage for Interns under the Affordable Care Act (ACA) provides eligible interns in D.C. with access to affordable and comprehensive health insurance coverage. The ACA was enacted in 2010 to expand healthcare access and affordability for all Americans, including interns who may not have access to employer-sponsored health insurance. Under the ACA, there are different options available for interns in D.C. to obtain health insurance coverage. These options include: 1. District of Columbia Health Benefit Exchange: D.C. operates its own health insurance exchange, known as DC Health Link. Interns can enroll in insurance plans offered through the exchange, allowing them to compare and choose from a variety of qualified health plans. 2. Medicaid Expansion: The ACA expanded Medicaid eligibility criteria, allowing more individuals to qualify for and access Medicaid coverage. In D.C., interns who meet the income and other eligibility requirements can enroll in Medicaid, providing them with comprehensive healthcare coverage. 3. Subsidized Coverage: Interns who have low to moderate incomes may qualify for premium tax credits and cost-sharing reductions under the ACA. These subsidies help reduce the cost of monthly health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket expenses, making coverage more affordable. 4. Catastrophic Plans: ACA also offers catastrophic health insurance plans, primarily designed for young and healthy individuals. These plans have lower monthly premiums but higher deductibles and out-of-pocket costs. Interns under the age of 30 or those who meet certain hardship exemptions can consider enrolling in these plans. Interns in D.C. can explore their coverage options through the DC Health Link website or seek assistance from certified enrollment counselors or brokers who can guide them in choosing the most suitable health insurance plan based on their needs and budget. It's important for interns to be aware of the open enrollment period under the ACA, during which they can apply for health insurance coverage. Outside the open enrollment period, interns may still qualify for a Special Enrollment Period if they experience certain life events, such as losing other health coverage or turning 26 and aging off their parents' insurance. By taking advantage of the ACA's provisions and understanding their eligibility for various coverage options, interns in the District of Columbia can secure essential healthcare coverage that promotes their overall well-being and protects them financially in case of unexpected medical expenses.