OregonHealthCare.gov is the state’s online health insurance marketplace. (Screen grab)
Oregonians looking for health insurance will have the chance to get it during a special enrollment period that opens later this month.
The Biden administration announced that from Feb. 15 through May 15 Oregonians will be able to shop for health coverage and find help paying for it at HealthCare.gov.
According to a press release from the Department of Consumer and Business Services, 94% of Oregonians had health insurance before the Covid pandemic as a result of efforts to expand coverage. But as the pandemic took hold, thousands of Oregonians have lost jobs, income, along with their insurance.
Oregonians can begin browsing plans and eligibility at OregonHealthCare.gov/WindowShop. Insurance agents and community partner organizations across the state will also be around to help Oregonians apply for financial aid and pick plans. Oregonians who don’t receive health insurance from their job, the Oregon Health Plan or Medicare may qualify for help paying for coverage. Temporarily uninsured people can also sign up for coverage.
According to a press release, individuals making $51,040 or less per year, and families of four making $104,800 or less, may qualify for financial aid. Last year, more than seven in 10 Oregonians received financial aid, lowering the average premium to $145 a month.
-Jake Thomas
