If you are worried about getting coverage by Jan. 1, you can get it. Here’s how

Starting Jan. 1 everyone has the opportunity to buy health insurance. No one can be denied coverage due to a pre-existing medical condition.
 
If you have not heard from Cover Oregon about your enrollment options by Dec. 23, it is unlikely that you will receive coverage through Cover Oregon by Jan. 1. If you need coverage on Jan. 1, you can enroll directly with an insurance company by either contacting them directly or working with an insurance agent. You can use CoverOregon.com to browse and compare plans, and find an insurance agent.
 
You will not receive a tax credit for plans purchased outside of Cover Oregon, but you can come back to Cover Oregon later and apply for a tax credit.

• Information for new Oregon Health Plan members: New Oregon Health Plan members do not have to wait to pick a health plan to enroll. They will be automatically enrolled. Coverage will start on Jan. 1 and they will receive a letter in the mail with more information.


• If you are a member of the state high-risk pool (Oregon Medical Insurance Pool): If you have not enrolled in coverage that will start on Jan. 1, you will be automatically enrolled in a new temporary program so that you do not have a break in care. This will give you time to enroll in a private plan inside or outside of Cover Oregon. You will receive a letter from Regence BlueCross BlueShield and the Oregon Health Authority with more information soon.  For more information click here.

Important dates

• Dec. 23 – We will contact you once your application is processed and ready for you to choose a plan. If you haven’t heard from us by Dec. 23, it is unlikely your application will be processed for Jan. 1 insurance coverage. We will continue to process your application for insurance coverage that would begin on a later date. If you need coverage starting Jan. 1, you can get it outside of Cover Oregon (see below).
• Dec. 27, 5:00 pm – This is the last day and time for Cover Oregon to receive your plan selection for private insurance. Cover Oregon is calling as many people as possible to help them enroll on the spot. We are also doing automated calls, sending emails, and mailing enrollment packets. We encourage you to enroll online at CoverOregon.com/enrollment.
• Jan. 15 – Your payment has to be received by your insurance company no later than Jan. 15 for coverage starting Jan. 1.