More than 10,000 previously uninsured people have signed up for health insurance through Connect for Health Colorado as of Tuesday morning.
Those individuals were able to sign up during an emergency special enrollment period that ends April 30.
In mid-March, Colorado announced that in response to the COVID-19 outbreak, it would create that special enrollment period for uninsured people to sign up for health insurance through Connect for Health Colorado. Initially, the state said the marketplace would open March 20 and residents had until April 3 to sign up. But on April 2, the state said they were extending the enrollment period until the end of April.
Uninsured residents who want to enroll for coverage have until then to sign up. The coverage begins May 1 for those who signed up after April 3.
Connect for Health Colorado Chief Executive Officer Kevin Patterson said this opportunity was created to relieve the stress for thousands of families.
“I encourage residents who are uninsured to sign up before the April 30 deadline,” he said.
Connect for Health Colorado offers a cost and plan finder to help people find the best plan for them.
Only people who are currently uninsured are eligible to enroll during this period. Anybody with already-existing plans through Connect for Health Colorado are not able to change their plans. People’s spouses and children who are also uninsured can enroll as well, even if one spouse or a child’s parent is already insured.
Business owners looking for options for their employee insurance benefits can direct them to Connect for Health Colorado as well.
Residents who have had a life change, such as a change in job, income or living situation, can contact Connect for Health Colorado for see what kind of coverage and financial help is available to them. These residents qualify for a 60-day special enrollment period that would allow them to sign up for a new health insurance plan or change the one they’re currently using
Connect for Health Colorado only sells plans with a full package of benefits. Anybody with questions can call Connect for Health Colorado to speak with a certified insurance broker or enrollment assister. Learn more about this here or call 855-752-6749.