Third period for health care enrollment underway

Covered California, the state’s health care exchange, announced it will kick off its third open-enrollment period by increasing efforts to reach those who are still unaware of the financial help available to them.

Efforts for the enrollment period that will run from Nov.1 through Jan. 31 will include more than 500 storefront locations, a statewide bus tour and a $29 million advertising campaign.

Officials will target the 750,000 uninsured residents who are eligible for Covered California. It is estimated an additional 1.5 million uninsured residents are eligible for Medi-Cal.

The uninsured are primarily younger, Hispanic or black residents, according to the exchange’s studies.

Officials estimate 295,000 to 450,000 people will sign up for coverage this upcoming enrollment period.

According to a recent survey, about one-third of uninsured residents are unaware they may qualify for subsidies, although 88 percent of purchasers say it is a motivating factor.

“The fact that many uninsured still do not know they can get a subsidy to dramatically lower their monthly costs is one of the more striking findings,” said Covered California Executive Director Peter V. Lee in a news release.

“It’s a reminder that the changes in the Affordable Care Act are sweeping and complex and that we need to be sure everyone understands how Covered California works and that significant financial help is available for low- and moderate-income consumers.”

Other changes for Covered California’s third open-enrollment period include elevating insurance brand names on the Covered California website; updating the Shop and Compare Tool online to make bottom-line prices more prominent; and promoting the optional adult dental coverage.

“The level of awareness is very high, but we still have work to do to get the word out that coverage is now affordable with financial help,” Lee said.

Californians who continue without insurance will face steeper penalties come tax season. Those who don’t purchase health insurance by 2016 may face a penalty of $695 per person or 2.5 percent of their income, whichever is larger.

This story was originally published October 25, 2015 at 3:18 PM with the headline "Third period for health care enrollment underway."