January 15th, 2019 ended the Open Enrollment period for Coloradans to sign up for health insurance on the state-run exchange, Connect for Health Colorado. A new record-high enrollment was seen in Colorado during this year’s Open Enrollment. More than 169,000 Coloradans enrolled in health coverage for 2019, which was a two percent increase over the Open Enrollment period in 2018. Tri-County Health Network helped enroll 321 people in new health insurance plans and helped an additional 354 people retain their health insurance.
Despite Open Enrollment ending, some individuals still may qualify to enroll in health coverage if they experience a “Life Change Event.” This qualified life change event would open a 60-day window to enroll in an insurance plan during a Special Enrollment Period. These qualified events could include, but are not limited to, loss of minimum essential coverage, birth of a baby, adoption of a child or placement of a child for foster care, getting married, gain of lawful presence, change of dependency status of someone on your plan, or turning 26 and aging off your parent’s plan. A full list of qualifying events can be found on the Connect for Health Colorado website.
In addition, there is year-round opportunity to enroll in Medicaid or Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) if the household income falls within the guidelines. Our local Health Coverage Guides at Tri-County Health Network are always willing to assist and explain the various enrollment steps. We understand that the enrollment process can be difficult, and at times frustrating, to navigate. That is why we are here to help with any insurance related issues and ensure that you are covered for all your adventures! Give us a call with any questions, 970-708-7096.
-Lily Kiely, Community Programs Coordinator