By Michelle Mendoza
Yesterday, December 5, was Get Covered Colorado Day, a day of action designed to encourage as many Coloradans as possible to enroll in 2025 health coverage during Connect for Health Colorado’s annual open enrollment period.
According to the 2023 Colorado Health Access Survey published by the Colorado Health Institute, 9.1% of residents in La Plata, Archuleta, Dolores, Montezuma and San Juan counties lacked health insurance coverage in 2023 compared to 4.6% of residents statewide.
Connect for Health Colorado, the state’s official health insurance marketplace, reports that enrollment across the state for plan year 2025 is fast outpacing previous years. Since Nov. 1, 221,443 residents have enrolled in a health insurance plan. That’s 23% more enrollments than roughly the same time period last year.
“It’s extraordinary to see that a record number of Coloradans have taken early action to enroll in affordable health insurance for 2025,” said Kevin Patterson, Chief Executive Officer of Connect for Health Colorado. “On Get Covered Colorado Day, I wanted everyone to know that there’s financial help available to make health insurance more accessible. In fact, 3 out of 5 Coloradans are expected to find a plan for $10 or less a month. Talk with one of our certified brokers or enrollment assisters and start your application now.
“We’re here to help through every step of the process.”
With tax credits still in effect for 2025, Coloradans can expect a high level of financial support, with 81% of customers qualifying for help. Additionally, people who are re-enrolling may find more affordable health insurance if they shop and change plans.
The Quick Cost and Plan Finder tool allows customers to browse plans and see what financial help they may be eligible for without having to create an account. For the 2024 Plan Year, the average net premium for Archuleta County residents enrolled in a Connect for Health Colorado plan was $147. On average, those who re-enroll into the same plan for Plan Year 2025 are expected to see premiums increase by $26 per month. However, by using the Quick Cost and Plan Finder tool to explore lower-premium plan options, individuals could reduce monthly premiums by $20 and receive health insurance coverage in Plan Year 2025 for just $127 per month.
Connect for Health Colorado’s enrollment for plan year 2025 is open through Jan. 15, 2025. Dec. 15 is the deadline to sign up for coverage that begins Jan. 1, 2025.
“Health insurance is vital in maintaining the well-being of you and your family,” said Colorado Insurance Commissioner Michael Conway. “With so many plans available for 2025, including Colorado Option plans that have lower premiums and more predictable costs, everyone will be able to find coverage that fits their budget and their health needs. And because there is financial help available for many Coloradans, I encourage everyone to not only enroll, but to find out if they’re eligible for financial assistance to pay for insurance. Don’t miss out on this open enrollment.”
Connect for Health Colorado offers a certified network of assisters and insurance brokers, located throughout Colorado who can provide free support in multiple languages. They can help Coloradans apply free of charge, and there’s no obligation to buy a plan when contacting an expert.
Six health insurance companies, including Anthem, Cigna, Denver Health, Kaiser Permanente, Rocky Mountain Health Plans, and Select Health, will offer medical plans for 2025. Additionally, dental and vision plans are available from several providers.
Those who need health care insurance are encouraged to learn more about open enrollment, plan options, and financial help at ConnectforHealthCO.com or by calling 855-752-6749.
Michelle Mendoza writes on behalf of Connect for health Colorado.