Healthcare Deadline Looming, Dec. 13

Friday, Dec. 15, is the last day to get 2018 health insurance during open enrollment. Oregonians who do not get coverage through their job or another program should go to HealthCare.gov and choose a plan before time runs out. HealthCare.gov is the only place to get help paying for coverage. “People who need coverage and haven’t enrolled at HealthCare.gov could be leaving money on the table,” said Chiqui Flowers, administrator of the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace. “They should go to HealthCare.gov by Friday and see if they qualify for financial assistance.” In 2017, more than 70 percent of Oregonians using HealthCare.gov qualified for financial assistance, and they received an average of $346 per month to help pay for coverage. This year, individuals making less than about $48,000 annually or families of four making less than about $98,000 annually may qualify. A recent analysis estimated that many Oregonians who were eligible to use HealthCare.gov and receive financial assistance did not enroll last year, including more than 78,000 men and more than 33,000 people ages 25 to 34. “Enrollment this year has been strong so far, but as the deadline approaches, it’s essential to take action if you need coverage or, if you’ve already signed up, remind your friends and family that it’s time to enroll and see if they can get help paying for coverage,” Flowers said. To start shopping for plans, visit HealthCare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596 (toll-free) (TTY: 1-855-889-4325). After the Dec. 15 deadline, people will be able to get 2018 coverage only in special circumstances, like when they move or lose job-related coverage.