CO | Consumer Advisory: Some Colorado consumers may still be able to purchase individual health insurance even though open enrollment has closed.
DENVER – The Division of Insurance (DOI), part of the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), reminds Coloradans that even though the open enrollment period for individual health insurance ended on January 12, 2018, some people may still have more time to sign up for a health insurance plan through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP).
Individual health plan consumers whose 2017 health insurance was not offered for 2018, and who have yet to enroll in health insurance, qualify for an SEP. This SEP is available until March 1, 2018.
“Recently, Connect for Health Colorado announced that this year’s enrollment numbers nearly matched last year’s, even though this year’s open enrollment period was 22 days shorter,” said Interim Insurance Commissioner Michael Conway. “Maintaining health insurance coverage is vitally important to so many people and their families, and these results are a tribute to our efforts in Colorado, despite the uncertainty and chaos taking place at the federal level this past year.
“And there is still time for some individuals to get enrolled under this Special Enrollment Period. We encourage people who are eligible to take advantage of this extended time,” continued Commissioner Conway.
As a reminder, this applies to people who buy individual health insurance plans, either though Connect for Health Colorado, or directly from an insurance company or agent. It is not for people who get their health insurance from an employer.
Individuals who are not eligible for this SEP and missed signing up during open enrollment will only be able to purchase individual coverage in 2018 if they have a qualifying life event, such as getting married or divorced, having a baby or losing employer-based health insurance.
To learn more about life change events and special enrollment periods, visit Connect for Health Colorado’s page, “When can I buy?” or contact an agent or your health insurance company directly.
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About the Division of Insurance
The Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI), part of the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) regulates the insurance industry and assists consumers and other stakeholders with insurance issues. Visit dora.colorado.gov/insurance for more information or call 303-894-7499 / toll free 800-930-3745.
About DORA
DORA is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the marketplace and is committed to promoting a fair and competitive business environment in Colorado. Consumer protection is our mission. Visit dora.colorado.gov for more information or call 303-894-7855 / toll free 1-800-886-7675.
MEDIA CONTACT
Vincent Plymell
P: 303-894-2261
vincent.plymell@state.co.us
dora.colorado.gov/insurance