Californians get extra time to sign up for health coverage

The deadline to enroll in health coverage that starts Jan. 1 has been extended to Thursday due to high demand, Covered California officials said.

“The spike in interest we are seeing in the last few days tells us there is continued demand for quality, affordable coverage,” said Executive Director Peter V. Lee in a news release. “We already have enrolled more consumers this year for Jan. 1 coverage than we did last year.”

According to the health exchange, across the state agents and counselors are still processing thousands of applications. The extra time gives them additional time to ensure consumers receive coverage for all of next year.

“We want to make sure everyone calling for coverage gets the help they need,” Lee said.

Open enrollment runs through Jan. 31, but coverage for consumers who enroll after Thursday will start in either February or March.

There are a multitude of ways to enroll, including online at www.CoveredCA.com. Enrollment locations can be found by visiting www.CoveredCA.com/get-help/local and searching for enrollment help by ZIP code.

Consumers can also call Covered California directly at 800- 300-1506 to enroll over the phone.

This story was originally published December 16, 2015 at 12:04 PM with the headline "Californians get extra time to sign up for health coverage."