December 13, 2017
BOISE, Idaho – Idahoans who want health and dental insurance coverage for 2018 must complete their application by this week’s deadline of December 15. Your Health Idaho is extending its hours of service to accommodate the anticipated high interest.
“We want to make sure Idahoans know about the shortened enrollment period and the December 15 deadline,” said Pat Kelly, Executive Director of Your Health Idaho. “With the holidays approaching, schedules get busy, and we don’t want anyone missing an opportunity to get covered, especially with such savings,” said Kelly.
Many Idahoans have found coverage for little to no cost for premiums in 2018. “This is a new type of sticker shock,” said Kelly. “Due to federal funding changes, tax credits are much higher this year. The results range from more robust coverage for the same amount, or premiums as low as zero dollars per month for a limited plan.” Plans are offered in metal tiers, ranging from the least expensive premium with bronze plans, to the more expensive gold plans. “We encourage consumers to take advantage of the lower prices available to so many this year.”
To assist Idahoans with finding the right coverage, Your Health Idaho supports a network of hundreds of certified agents, brokers, and enrollment counselors across the state.
“This is expert advice for free, and we encourage all Idahoans to take advantage of this service,” said Kelly. “They can help with everything from completing an application to selecting the right coverage
for each individual’s needs.” To find an agent, broker, or enrollment counselor near you, visit YourHealthIdaho.org and click ‘Find Help Near You.’
Consumers have more choice than ever before in 2018 with seven carriers offering a total of 299 medical and dental plans. Your Health Idaho is the only place where Idahoans can receive a tax credit to offset the cost of coverage.
Your Health Idaho’s extended hours are Monday through Friday, December 11-22, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. MT. Phones open later at 9 a.m. Wednesdays only. Consumers who may have questions after they enroll can also call on Saturday, December 16, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Representatives can be reached toll-free at 1-855-944-3246.
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Your Health Idaho was established by state law in 2013 to provide an online marketplace where Idaho families and small businesses can go to compare and purchase health insurance. Your Health Idaho is governed by a 19-member Board authorized by the Idaho Legislature to set the rules and regulations for implementing a state-based health insurance exchange. For more information please visit www.yourhealthidaho.org. You can also check us out on Facebook or Twitter.