Smart Clinic at Sterling Main Street is getting a little help for people who still need to sign up for health insurance.

Sterling will host AdvisorNet Financial employees to give advice from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26. The sessions are free and open to the public, and all walk-ins are welcome. Private sessions may be scheduled, as well.

The deadline to obtain health insurance under the Affordable Care Act, also known as Obamacare, is March 31. Anyone able to afford health insurance must have insurance by that date.

Rates are higher in southeastern Minnesota because of a lack of health care options — Mayo Clinic and Mayo Clinic Health System dominate the health care field in the area. That has translated to hundreds of dollars more in health insurance costs for individuals each month compared to the Twin Cities area, which has greater competition among health insurance companies because of multiple health care options.

Health insurance companies are trying to get rid of higher costs in the area, however. Blue Cross Blue Shield and Mayo officials announced a payment system agreement in January designed to pay for better health care results while lowering overall costs.

Financial advisors at Sterling over the next few weeks will discuss how Obamacare, specifically MNsure, may impact an individual’s health insurance plan. Advisors will be available to assist anyone who may have any questions regarding the new law, or needs help selecting an appropriate health insurance plan.