Arkansas does not operate its own ACA exchange, so residents shopping for individual or family coverage go through HealthCare.gov, the federal marketplace, to compare plans and apply for subsidies.
Arkansas expanded Medicaid under the ACA, using a program known as ARHOME that relies on private managed care plans for many enrollees rather than a traditional fee-for-service Medicaid model. Adults earning up to 138% of the federal poverty level generally qualify, which reduces the number of residents stuck without an affordable coverage option.
Shoppers in Arkansas should double check subsidy eligibility carefully during enrollment, since household income right around the Medicaid cutoff can shift someone between ARHOME and a marketplace plan with premium tax credits. Reviewing prescription drug coverage is also worth the extra few minutes, since formularies vary by plan.