DENVER – Colorado health insurance leaders are suggesting that rather than purchase material items this Cyber Monday, instead give the gift of coverage.
“We know the peace of mind that comes with knowing your personal finances are protected with health insurance – and that you can get the health care you need – is a gift that is now in reach for many more families,” said Gary Drews, chief executive for Connect for Health Colorado, the state’s online marketplace for health insurance.
“Whether it’s adult children getting coverage for their parents’ peace of mind or young parents building the financial protection they need to back them up, a new health insurance policy will brighten any home. But it’s time to start shopping now,” Drews said.
The exchange was created as a result of state legislation in 2011, allowing Colorado to create its own system rather than defaulting to an exchange run by the federal government.
Buyers of health insurance can get financial assistance to help pay their monthly premium. More than 6,000 Coloradans have signed up for health insurance coverage in 2015 through the system.
Individuals and families have until Dec. 15 to lock in coverage to start Jan. 1, whether they bought health insurance in 2014 or are buying their own for the first time. Open enrollment ends Feb. 15, 2015.
“With just two weeks left to shop for January coverage we are urging anyone who doesn’t have coverage to make their first clicks Monday at Connectforhealthco.com,” Drews said. “Whether they are looking for free, in-person assistance in their community or they are ready to choose their own plan on the website, that’s the place to start on Cyber Monday. We are pleased with the enrollments we are seeing but we know there are thousands of Coloradans who have yet to make a choice.”
Connect for Health Colorado officials suggest that people do not start over or fill out multiple applications if they experience technical problems.
Instead, officials tell people to send their full name (as it was entered on the application), phone number, email address, and Connect for Health Colorado account number (if it exists) to help@sc.connectforhealthco.com.
Officials warn not to include any other personal information in the email.
Include the words, “Requesting Enrollment Help” in the subject line.
pmarcus@durangoherald.com
