WASHINGTON HEALTHPLANFINDER ANNOUNCES SPECIAL NEW ENROLLMENT PERIOD DUE TO CORONAVIRUS
This is critical – IF YOU DON’T HAVE HEALTH INSURANCE, PLEASE READ THIS!
A limited time special enrollment period for qualified individuals who are currently without health insurance has been opened up by the Washington Health Benefit Exchange. This unique special enrollment period began March 10 and runs through April 8, 2020, allowing individuals to enroll in health insurance coverage through the Washington Healthplanfinder. It is there because of the recognition that many have been exposed to coronavirus in Washington state, and access to health care will be critical for all as this health threat continues to unfold.
According to its website, individuals seeking a special enrollment must contact the Customer Support Center between 7:30 AM and 5:30 PM Monday through 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 a coverage start date beginning April 1, 2020. Language assistance and disability accommodations are provided at no cost.
The website points out that customers who experience certain qualifying events, such as marriage, birth of a child, or a move, are eligible to shop for coverage at any time. Finally, those who qualify for Medicaid through Washington Apple Health may apply year-round.
The website may be accessed at https://www.wahbexchange.org/washington-healthplanfinder-announces-special-enrollment-period-in-response-to-growing-coronavirus-outbreak/ .
About the Author
William K. Thayer
Bill Thayer is one of the founding partners of the Schauermann Thayer Jacobs Staples & Edwards law firm. Bill is licensed in both Oregon and Washington, and actively practiced law from 1980 to 2021. He is now "of counsel" with Schauermann Thayer and serves as an arbitrator when appointed by the courts or litigants. During his more than 40 years of active law practice, Bill advised and represented clients in personal injury and wrongful death claims and litigation, including automobile collision, motorcycle, bicycle, and pedestrian injury and death cases, dog bite cases, construction site injury claims, and a myriad of other types of injury and death claims. While many claims were settled through negotiation or mediation, Mr. Thayer litigated, arbitrated and/or tried to verdict many cases for his clients. He continues to occasionally be appointed by courts and other lawyers to serve as an arbitrator of tort claims. Bill enjoys writing as one of his varied recreational interests when he is not working.
