Open enrollment in Vermont Health Connect began Nov. 1. The Office of the Health Care Advocate encourages Vermonters to act soon to enroll in a 2018 Vermont Health Connect plan.
The Open Enrollment period is shorter this year; it ends on Dec. 15. You will not be able to switch from your current plan or purchase a new plan after Dec. 15 unless you qualify for a special enrollment period or Medicaid.
“If you want to make a change or buy a new plan for 2018 you must act before December 15. Our team of advocates is available to answer your questions and help you understand your options,” Mike Fisher, Vermont's chief health care advocate, said in a news release. “You should also know that subsidies to help with monthly premiums and out-of-pocket costs are still available.”
To find the 2018 plan that best meets your needs, visit Vermont Health Connect (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov/Get_Started) online. Compare plans and estimate your costs using the Vermont Health Connect decision tools (info.healthconnect.vermont.gov/tax_credit_calculator).
The HCA is available to help no matter what your income or health insurance status. The HCA is a free service for all Vermonters with health care issues. If you have questions about your health care or health insurance, call the HCA's advocates at 800-917-7787 or fill out their online help form (vtlawhelp.org/vtlegal_gethelp).
The Office of the Health Care Advocate helps Vermont consumers with a broad range of problems and questions related to health care services and health insurance.
The HCA also acts as a voice for consumers in health care policy matters before the Vermont legislature and before government agencies that oversee insurance and health care programs. The Office of the Health Care Advocate is a project of Vermont Legal Aid.
Vermont Legal Aid is a nonprofit law firm that provides legal advice and services to individuals and families throughout Vermont who are facing a civil legal problem that threatens their rights, shelter, job, health, or well-being. VLA began serving clients in 1968.