Washington Healthplanfinder

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Nov. 5, 2020

OLYMPIA, Wash. – Washington Healthplanfinder reminds Washingtonians that open enrollment has started, encouraging those seeking health coverage to visit WAhealthplanfinder.org to shop, choose, and save on health and dental coverage. 

“Our focus remains on encouraging customers to review their options and sign up for coverage that meets their needs,” said Exchange Chief Executive Officer, Pam MacEwan. “The 2021 open enrollment period has begun, and residents should use this opportunity to access coverage that will last them all year.”

Since Nov. 1, over 182,000 Washingtonians have signed up for 2021 coverage, including about 2,400 new customers. Among the new customers, 30% have selected new Cascade Care plans. These plans offer deductibles that are on average $1,000 less than other plans, and cover more services prior to meeting a deductible, including primary care visits, mental health services, and generic drugs. Customers will know they are choosing a Cascade or Cascade Select plan, thanks to the newly designed Cascade Care logo. The name of each plan will indicate whether it is a Cascade (standard) or Cascade Select (public option) plan.

“This year is there are more ways to live well and stay well during this uncertain time,” said Michael Marchand, Chief Marketing Officer. “Washingtonians are concerned about their health, safety and well-being, and are seeking health coverage that embodies how they are living today.  Our new Cascade Care plans give customers an opportunity to find and enroll in a product that can meet their needs.”

For those seeking coverage starting January 1, customers need to enroll in a plan by December 15. Those who enroll after that deadline and before January 15 will have a coverage start date of February 1.

Washington Healthplanfinder offers a wide range of resources to help people navigate their coverage options – including in-person enrollment centers, virtual video or phone assistance, and the WAPlanfinder Mobile App. Anyone requiring help signing up for coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder may contact the Customer Support Center at 1-855-923-4633; TTY: 855-627-9604. They may also contact an Exchange certified Navigator, Broker, or Enrollment center who can answer insurance questions and help with enrollment. Free help from local experts is accessible via the WAPlanfinder Mobile App or by visiting www.wahealthplanfinder.org.

During the 2021 open enrollment period, the Customer Support Center will be open 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. Monday – Friday. Additionally, extended hours scheduled:

November

  • Saturday, November 7, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

  • Veteran’s Day, Wednesday, November 11, 7:30 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

  • Saturday November 14, 10 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

  • Day after Thanksgiving, Friday November 27, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

December

  • Saturday, December 5, 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

  • Saturday, December 12, 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

  • Sunday, December 13, 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

  • Monday, December 14, 7:30 a.m. – 11:59 p.m.

  • Tuesday, December 15, 7:30 a.m. – 11:59 p.m.

  • Tuesday, December 24, 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

  • Thursday, December 31, 7:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

January

  • Saturday, January 9, 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.

  • Thursday, January 14 7:30 a.m. – 11:59 p.m.

  • Friday, January 15 7:30 a.m. – 11: 59 p.m.

Reminders: Enrollment is offered year-round to individuals and families through Washington Apple Health (Medicaid).

About Washington Healthplanfinder

Washington Healthplanfinder is an online marketplace for individuals and families in Washington to compare and enroll in health insurance coverage and gain access to tax credits, reduced cost sharing and public programs such as Medicaid. The next qualified health and dental plans open enrollment period for Washington Healthplanfinder from Nov. 1, 2020 to Jan. 15, 2021.

Before starting the application process, customers will need to gather the following:

  • Legal names of all household members

  • Birthdates for household members

  • Home and mailing address

  • Social Security Number or immigration documents (Families which include unlawfully present immigrants may still apply)

  • Income information (recent pay stubs, tax return, or W-2)

  • Tax filing status

  • Current health plan information

  • Tribal membership (if enrolled in a federally recognized tribe)

About Washington Apple Health

In Washington, Medicaid is called Washington Apple Health. Free or low-cost coverage is available year-round for those who qualify. Since the Affordable Care Act launched in October 2013, more people have access to preventive care, such as cancer screenings, treatment for diabetes and high blood pressure, and many other health care services they need to stay healthy. Apple Health clients enroll and renew online using Washington Healthplanfinder. Apple Health is administered by the Washington State Health Care Authority: www.hca.wa.gov.

CHA Washington