Tuesday marked the first day Illinois residents can shop on the state's new health insurance marketplace, a major provision of the Affordable Care Act. The statewide health insurance exchanges are open for business despite the federal government shutdown. 

There have been some reported glitches today on the federal health insurance enrollment site since it launched at 7 a.m. Central time. But thus far, Illinois' online-based marketplace homepage, which can take people to the federal enrollment site or a state site for expanded Medicaid enrollment, has been running smoothly.

State officials also kicked off a $33 million ad campaign Tuesday meant to inform Illinois consumers about the marketplace, called "Get Covered Illinois." 

The roll out of the marketing campaign, which includes large newspaper ads in 50 cities, comes after a Commonwealth Fund survey released Monday that found six out of 10 people in the state are unaware of the marketplace or that financial assistance is available to help pay for health coverage.

“We know that a majority of adults in the state are still unaware of the marketplace and how it can help provide access to affordable health insurance plans,” Kelly Sullivan, chief marketing officer for Get Covered Illinois, said in a statement. “Our first and early advertising phase is designed to address this issue. October is the month for awareness of our name, and education about resources around the State as uninsured residents begin to shop. November is a pivot to a more robust activation and enrollment message.”

In the upcoming months, Sullivan said the advertising would address the top three barriers to uninsured individuals purchasing health coverage, including cost, confusion and complacency. Marketing efforts include social media outreach, and TV and radio ads.

Under the Affordable Care Act, the majority of Americans are required to have health insurance or face a fine. In order to avoid paying such fines in 2014, people have to enroll by the end of March. Those who want their coverage to start January 1 have to enroll no later than December 15.

Some 1.8 million Illinoisans are uninsured, and state officials expect at least 300,000 people to enroll in health care coverage between October 1 and March 31. Through the marketplace, Illinoisans can compare health plans side-by-side, get help from specialists and apply for financial support.

People can enroll through the state's "Get Covered Illinois" website, www.getcoveredillinois.gov, by phone or in person at a state community partner listed on the website. People who need more information can call the toll-free help line at (866) 311-1119, which will be open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.