6 Things to Know About Healthcare.gov Enrollment in Oregon

Tuesday, December 30, 2014

Annie Ellison, GoLocalPDX Reporter

The date has already passed to enroll in healthcare plans through Healthcare.gov with coverage beginning January 1, 2015.

Following an April decision to switch from the troubled Cover Oregon health exchange to the federal platform, Healthcare.gov, all Oregonians previously enrolled in healthcare through Cover Oregon must re-enroll with the federal health marketplace for 2015 coverage.

Between the Nov. 15 beginning of open enrollment and Dec. 21, 67,467 Oregonians enrolled in Healthcare.gov. However, some could still face a gap in coverage. Here are six things you should know.

1. What if I was enrolled with Cover Oregon?

Because the Oregon state health exchange failed, 2014 coverage ends Dec. 31, 2014, regardless of when enrollment in Cover Oregon began, or when information was updated.

2. When will I be covered if I apply right now?

The deadline for Jan. 1 coverage was Dec. 15. The next earliest possible date to begin coverage is Feb. 1. For those who enroll by Jan. 15, coverage can start Feb. 1, and those who enroll by Feb. 15 can begin coverage March 1. The deadline for open enrollment is Feb. 15, 2015.

3. What if I am still not enrolled by February 15?

Following the Feb. 15 deadline, 2015 coverage can only be obtained through a special enrollment period, which requires an application. Qualifiers for the 60-day period include marriage, the birth of a child, or the loss of preexisting health coverage. However, there are no deadlines for Medicaid and CHIP. Those who qualify will be covered immediately.

4. Will my enrollment in Cover Oregon affect my taxes?

Residents who enrolled in Cover Oregon in 2014 must include IRS Form 1095a in their tax filings.

5. What if I don't want health insurance at all?

Those who can afford health insurance but choose not to purchase it are subject to a fee. The penalty is either 2 percent of the person's income, or $325 per adult -- whichever amount is higher.

6. Can I get dental coverage?

Some adult healthcare plans include dental coverage, while other stand-alone dental plans are available. But, for children under 18, dental coverage is an essential health benefit and must be made available.