Oregon Health Insurance Market Opens on Sunday
Friday, October 30, 2015
The open enrollment period begins on Sunday and runs through January 31, 2016. It is the only time of the year to change plans and, for those without health insurance, to buy a plan and avoid a tax penalty in 2016. Those who already have insurance should still shop around, according to Patrick Allen, director of the Department of Consumer and Business Services. Consumers who shopped and switched plans saved an average of $400, according to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
"Even if you already have insurance, take some time during open enrollment to look at all of your options through the marketplace," Allen said. "Prices and plans - as well as your health needs - may have changed considerably. You also may qualify for financial help."
As GoLocal reported, 24 insurance agents around the state will open drop-in enrollment centers during the open enrollment period. These centers will be during normal business hours, along with some extended hours, throughout the entire enrollment period.
"In-person help can be extremely valuable in finding the right coverage for you and your family," Allen said. "We are pleased to be partnering with agents and community organizations around the state to offer this important assistance."
Financial help is available for those who enroll though HealthCare.gov. Depending on income, residents may qualify for tax credits to help pay their monthly premiums and assistance with out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles and co-pays. In 2015, more than 77,000 of the approximately 107,000
For more information or help finding an agent, visit the Oregon Health Care website. To start shopping for plans, visit HealthCare.gov.
Related Slideshow: Oregon’s Top 7 Hospitals
U.S. News and World Report has pubished the 2015-16 version of their annual best hopital story and seven Oregon hospitals earned plaudits.
In order to earn a ranking, hospitals had to either earn a national ranking in one of 16 categories or meet a high performing standard.
For a look at which seven hospitals made the cut, check out the slides below.
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