Now that 2020 Open Enrollment has started, health care providers and professionals have a unique opportunity to encourage health care access in our state. Our communities look to us for guidance in health-related decisions, and insurance coverage is no exception.
By engaging in conversation about this year’s changes and the importance of enrolling in a health insurance plan, and sharing enrollment resources on logistical details and tips for renewing coverage, we can work together to ensure that as many Washingtonians as possible have access to affordable care.
I was thrilled to see that coverage options have increased for the 2020 open enrollment period. The Washington Health Benefit Exchange (Exchange) announced that 66 qualified health plans from nine providers are available this year – only 40 were available last year. And, more patients who previously only had one insurance carrier available in their community will now have additional options.
Between now and the close of open enrollment on Dec. 15, I invite you to join WSHA in assisting Washington patients to get covered by spreading information and resources. The Washington Healthplanfinder is a great tool for individuals interested in reviewing insurance options. The Exchange has created a downloadable step-by-step checklist of the enrollment application process as well as the 2020 Qualified Health Plan and Qualified Dental Plan Certification Packet to guide participants. The American Hospital Association also has broader resources available.
It’s crucial that hospitals, clinics and other providers help Washington families connect to the above tools for open enrollment. We cannot hope to improve the health of the community if many families in our state live without coverage and access to care.
