Next week brings the last opportunity to sign up for health care coverageand select a plan through Covered California or directly with health plans for coverage that will begin on Feb 1.
Californian’s have always had a three month window to sign up. This year though it started a little early and ends a little early.
“Typically the open enrollment period runs through the end of January. We want to make sure that consumers know time is running out and if they are looking for health insurance for the year the deadline is January 15th,” said James Scullary with Covered California
The majority of uninsured Californians who are also eligible for financial help either don’t know or think they don’t qualify for aid.
“We’re talking about, in some cases, hundreds of dollars in financial help. The average consumer saves about 80 percent on the price of their monthly premium by receiving financial help through covered California,” explained Scullary.
He says there’s about 46,000 people in the Sacramento metro area that would be eligible for Covered California or Medical.
“Nobody can be turned away. Whether they have a preexisting condition, everyone is guaranteed to get a health plan. So they can come to coveredca.com, check out their options using the shop and compare tool to find out not only how much it would cost them and how much financial help they may be able to receive, but find out what options and plans are available in their area.”
Cosumers can also get free and confidential enrollment assistance by visiting www.coveredca.com/find-help/ and searching among 700 storefronts statewide or 16,000 certified enrollers who can assist consumers in understanding their choices and enrolling, including individuals who can assist in other languages. In addition, consumers can reach the Covered California service center by calling (800) 300-1506.
About Covered California
Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace, where Californians can find affordable, high-quality insurance from top insurance companies. Covered California is the only place where individuals who qualify can get financial assistance on a sliding scale to reduce premium costs. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and budget. Depending on their income, some consumers may qualify for the low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal program.