By SHANNON HAUGLAND
Sentinel Staff Writer
Open enrollment for the national Health Insurance Marketplace closes Saturday, but individuals who have put it off for the last moment still have time to sign up, said John Hammarlund, regional administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services in Seattle.
Hammarlund said that as of Thursday 9,100 Alaskans had enrolled since sign-ups began Nov. 1.
“The good news is the average premium price is going down by 3 percent,” he said, referring to the benchmark “Silver” plan, available from Premera Blue Cross. He said there are a “myriad of business factors” that go into the price of the premium. Although only one company participates in the marketplace, there are five plans customers can choose from, Hammarlund said.
For Sitkans, help in signing up will be available 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the SEARHC Patient Health Benefits office, Room 116 of the Community Health Services building on Seward Ave. on Japonski Island.
Open enrollment is a chance for people to sign up who have no health insurance or want to renew.
“If you’re already in the marketplace, we suggest they take a look – their circumstances could have changed,” Hammarlund said. “Get into the website and make sure the plan you have is the best one for you. Your health needs may have changed, your prescription (needs), your financial circumstances may have changed, and you may have a lower premium.”
Plans also change, added Susan Briles, Patient Health Benefits Specialist at SEARHC.
Those enrolled already are automatically re-enrolled, Hammarlund said. Coverage begins Jan. 1.
The professional assistance available at SEARHC on Saturday is free and open to all.
“We help everyone!” said Andrea Thomas, SEARHC Patient Health Benefits manager. “We can help you explore your options for health coverage including subsidized plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid, Veterans Benefits and other coverage. ... We can help you explore your options for health coverage including subsidized plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid, Veterans Benefits and other coverage.”
“Don’t be shy to ask us questions,” Briles said. “We are more than happy to help.”
The team also helps with Marketplace and Medicaid renewals.
Thomas added it is important to update information every year to get the best price, understand the changes for the 2019 plans, and ensure the plan covers all needs.
Those needing help on Saturday may call 966-8405, to ask questions or set up an appointment for that day. The Patient Health Benefits toll-free number, 1-855-966-8684, and email outreach@searhc.org will also be available Saturday to those needing information.
There is also another toll-free number Alaskans can use, at 1-800-318-2596, Hammarlund said.
“There’s help available in reviewing plans, and making choices,” he said. “The place to start is healthcare.gov. I encourage consumers every year to consult with the marketplace at healthcare.gov or take advantage of in-person help or by phone, and talk it through. Circumstances change every year and you owe it to yourself to see what options are available for you, see what’s available and make sure you meet the deadlines.”
