On Oct. 1, the Affordable Care Act went into effect. Uninsured Maryland residents now have the opportunity to register for expanded health insurance options through the Affordable Care Act and the Maryland Health Connection.ย  To help individuals learn about, compare, and sign up for health insurance policies, Charles County is hosting a Health Benefits Fair on Saturday, Dec. 14 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the College of Southern Maryland (8730 Mitchell Road, La Plata) in theย  Center for Business and Industry.

Residents will receive information and speak to experts about coverage options, and register to receive health insurance benefits, which will take effect on Wednesday, Jan. 1. A small business expert will be on hand to discuss health insurance coverage options for small businesses.ย 

Anyone unable to attend the Fair on Dec. 14 is encouraged to attend one of the following events to receive health care registration and assistance:

Health Partners Clinic (7030 Crain Highway, Waldorf)

Monday, Dec. 2; Thursday, Dec. 5; and Friday, Dec. 6

9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Charles County Department of Health (4545 Crain Highway, White Plains)

Main Building Conference Room

Tuesday, Dec. 10

4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Bel Alton Community Development Center (9501 Crain Highway, Bel Alton)

South end of building

Thursday, Dec. 12

4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

All Charles County residents who do not have health insurance coverage are urged to take advantage of this free event. Appointments are not required but an appointment slot can be reserved in advance by calling 800-975-2965. For more information, visit http://www.CharlesCountyHealth.org or call 800-975-2965.ย ย