Uninsured Washingtonians can sign up for medical coverage during special enrollment period

OLYMPIA, Wash. –Washington residents who don't currently have insurance have a short window to sign up through the Washington Health Benefit Exchange.

State health officials decided to allow enrollment for a short time in response to the potential spread of COVID-19 cases.

The limited-time special enrollment period for qualified individuals who are currently without insurance runs through April 8, 2020, allowing uninsured individuals a 30 day window to enroll in health insurance coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder.

Anyone wanting to sign up through the special enrollment period need to contact the Customer Support Center between 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday at 1-855-923-4633; TTY: 1-855-627-9604, or a local certified broker or navigator, request the SEP, and select a plan by April 8 for coverage start date beginning April 1, 2020. Language assistance and disability accommodations are provided at no cost.

“It is apparent that many in our state have been exposed to this virus and that health insurance will be critical to those seeking treatment,” said Exchange Chief Executive Officer Pam MacEwan. “Individuals need to have peace of mind to take care of all health needs, especially if they are at a high risk. Given today’s exceptional circumstances we are enabling those who are uninsured to enroll and gain access to the vital services they may need.”

Customers who experience another qualifying event (such as marriage, birth of a child or a move) are also eligible to shop for coverage and/or those who qualify for Medicaid through Washington Apple Health is available year round on Washington Healthplanfinder.