Nearly 2.2 million people had selected health plans through the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act state-based and federal marketplaces by Dec. 28, according to an HHS report.
Nearly 1.8 million people enrolled in December alone, about seven times as much as the total number of people who signed up in October and November combined. Enrollment numbers have been lower than expected, partly because of the numerous technical issues that have plagued HealthCare.gov. However, following repair efforts, the site could support 83,000 concurrent users as of Dec. 23, and enrollment has been rising, according to HHS.
The new report also contains information on the demographic characteristics of those who have sign up for health insurance under the PPACA. Here are four key findings.
1. Of those who had enrolled by late December, 54 percent are female and 46 percent are male.
2. Young adults represent a relatively small portion of the enrolled population. Just 24 percent of those who have signed up for health plans through the exchanges are between the ages of 18 and 34.
3. Most people (60 percent) have enrolled in silver health plans, while 20 percent have enrolled in bronze plans, the lowest level metal tier under the PPACA.
4. Seventy-nine percent of those who have enrolled will receive federal financial assistance in paying their premiums.
More Articles on PPACA Enrollment:
HHS: 6M Have Gained Coverage Through PPACA
Federal Officials: Some Will Have Problems With PPACA Plans
Experts: PPACA Exchanges Will Likely Fall Short of Enrollment Targets