The mission of the DC Health Benefit Exchange Authority is to implement a health care exchange program in the District of Columbia in accordance with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, thereby ensuring access to quality and affordable health care to all District of Columbia residents.

Summary of Services

In March of 2010, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 was signed into law with the central goal of ensuring that all Americans have access to quality, affordable health care. It enabled implementation of significant health insurance reforms including the establishment of Health Benefit Exchanges nationwide. The D.C. Health Benefit Exchange Authority is a quasi-governmental agency of the District of Columbia government charged with implementing and operating the District’s Health Benefit Exchange. The Health Benefit Exchange operates DC Health Link, an online marketplace for District residents and small businesses to compare private health insurance plans, learn if they are eligible for tax credits or subsidies to purchase private insurance or qualify for Medicaid, and enroll in a health plan that best meets their needs. The Health Benefit Exchange enables individuals and small businesses and their employees to find affordable and easier-to-understand health insurance. The District of Columbia Health Benefit Exchange Authority is now in its eighth year of operation and concluded its seventh open enrollment period for people purchasing individual insurance on January 31, 2020.