Clark County residents shopping for a health plan on the state-based insurance exchange can now get help at a local enrollment center.
The Washington Health Benefit Exchange, which operates Washington Healthplanfinder, announced Monday the state’s first full-service enrollment centers in Vancouver and Spokane. The health insurance storefronts will open Nov. 1 — the beginning of this year’s open enrollment window.
“The introduction of these two storefronts allows the exchange to reach individuals and families who need coverage the most,” said Pam MacEwan, CEO of the Washington Health Benefit Exchange, in a news release. “For those who don’t have access to computers or help acquiring health insurance, these full-service enrollment centers can connect residents with the tools and in-person assistance necessary for gaining coverage.”
The Vancouver enrollment center will be operated by Applied Team Insurance, an independent insurance agency. The office, 7720 N.E. Vancouver Mall Drive, Suite 110, will be open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturdays. Evening and weekend appointments will also be available.
“We have 51 percent of people who don’t use navigators or brokers, they go at this on their own,” said Rachel Lauser with Applied Team Insurance.
The enrollment center will be staffed with navigators and brokers who can guide customers through the available coverage options — including individual health plans and Apple Health (Medicaid) — enroll in plans, answer questions and help customers determine if they qualify for financial assistance. Computer stations will also be available for use by appointment and walk-in customers.
All of the services are free.
“This gives people a place to go to ask questions and make changes,” Lauser said.
Officials with Washington Healthplanfinder are encouraging residents to schedule appointments now with brokers and navigators. The Vancouver center is also offering phone appointments. Appointments can be made by calling 360-726-6092 or emailing donna@appliedteamins.com.
Applied Team Insurance is hosting an open house from 3 to 6 p.m. Thursday for people to check out the office and learn more about services that will be available during open enrollment.
Open enrollment for Washington Healthplanfinder plans is Nov. 1 to Jan. 31. After the deadline passes, only those with qualifying life events — such as getting married, having a child, moving to a new coverage area or aging out of a parent’s plan — will be eligible to enroll in exchange plans before the next open enrollment period begins this fall.
The deadline does not apply to those with Medicaid, for whom enrollment is open year-round.
Residents can also locate a local navigator or broker by clicking on the “customer support” link on the exchange website, www.wahealthplanfinder.org. Additional customer support is available through the customer support center, 1-855-923-4633.
