Issaquah residents who don’t have health insurance can now enroll in affordable health insurance options through Washington Healthplanfinder, thanks to the Affordable Care Act.
Many people with low and moderate incomes will be able to get free coverage or will pay reduced rates, without fear of discrimination against anyone with pre-existing conditions.
Still, enrolling might seem daunting for anyone who doesn’t have good Internet access, or who doesn’t feel comfortable signing up using a website.
That’s why the City of Issaquah and Public Health – Seattle & King County have teamed up for an in-person enrollment event from noon-6 p.m. Oct. 28, 2013, in the Eagle Room at Issaquah City Hall, 130 E. Sunset Way.
For anyone who signs up through Washington Healthplanfinder before Dec. 23, 2013, medical coverage begins Jan. 1, 2014.
At the event, a team of in-person assisters will help:
• Enroll residents in the plan that best fits their needs.• Determine whether or not residents are eligible for financial help.
• Compare brand new plans side-by-side.• Translate into Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Somali.
What to bring to be ready to fully enroll:
• Names, birthdays, address and contact info for all household members• Social Security Numbers
• Passport, alien, or other immigration numbers — for any legal immigrants who need health care coverage• Estimated tax status for 2012, 2013 and 2014 for all household members
• Income information for 2012, 2013 and 2014 for all adults and all minors age 14 or older who are required to file a tax return• Information about health insurance available to your family (employer-sponsored health insurance, Medicare, TriCare, PeaceCorps insurance, etc.)
Overall, King County has 180,000 residents who are newly eligible for free or low-cost health insurance.
Going without health insurance not only leaves people vulnerable to sickness and injuries, it’s a threat to their financial health as well. If they get sick or hurt, they may head for the emergency room. And they may have to choose between paying for rent or for their medical bills.
In partnership with cities and local organizations, Public Health – Seattle & King County has launched a campaign called Coverage is Here King County to raise awareness of the new health insurance coverage available to all residents and to help them enroll.
In addition, partners in our community will hold enrollment events to raise awareness about the insurance options available to residents.