News Releases

2017 Open Enrollment Period Underway

With 2017 open enrollment now underway, health insurance consumers across the nation again have the opportunity to find an insurance plan or change the one they currently have. Here in Northeast Ohio, hospitals, local social service agencies and Enroll America have planned a series of outreach events to encourage consumers to get covered prior to Jan. 31, 2017, when the fourth open enrollment period ends.

“After three rounds of open enrollment, assisters in the community are using data to target their efforts in order to reach the remaining uninsured in the community,” said Tony Gutowski, government relations manager at The Center for Health Affairs. “While it’s true that premiums have, on average, risen for the fourth period of open enrollment, consumers should also be aware that most people qualify for subsidies that make insurance much more affordable.”

There are dozens of opportunities around Northeast Ohio to sign up for coverage or ask questions during the 2017 open enrollment period.

• United Way 2-1-1 
  First Call for Help provides access to answers about affordable healthcare coverage and can put consumers in touch with someone who can help them review their insurance options. This service is available 24-hours a day.
• HealthCare.Gov 
  Consumers can use this website to browse plans and to find out if they qualify for financial assistance.
• Get Covered Connector
  This tool can help consumers find local opportunities to meet with in-person assisters.
• Marketplace Open Enrollment Piece
  This resource, released by the Northeast Ohio Outreach and Enrollment Council, aims to shed light on insurance options for Northeast Ohioans.

For more information on 2017 open enrollment, please contact Tony Gutowski at 216.255.3610 or via email.