September 24, 2013 – Thousands of Oregonian individuals, families and small businesses are getting ready to sign up for insurance through Cover Oregon. For many, the wait for health coverage has lasted months or even years. No one can be denied coverage, even if they have a pre-existing health condition.
Starting in October, individuals, families and small businesses will be able to apply for health insurance and access savings to help to pay for premiums through a statewide, on-the-ground network of Cover Oregon certified insurance agents, community partners or Tribal organizations. Customers who want to buy commercial plans have until December 15 to enroll for coverage to kick in January 1, 2014.
While all Cover Oregon certified community partners, Tribal organizations and agents can assist and enroll Oregonians in coverage starting October 1, only insurance agents are able to recommend a specific health insurance plan that fits their needs and budget.
“Cover Oregon is proud to partner with insurance agents who can help us offer better access to health coverage for all Oregonians and Oregon small businesses,” said Rocky King, Cover Oregon’s Executive Director. “The Agents’ knowledge of the health care market is a huge added value for those enrolling in coverage.”
Cover Oregon is certifying 2,000 insurance agents by October 1 to help Oregonians enroll. To become certified, agents need to take part in a two-part training program. Once certified, agents with Cover Oregon can sell all plans offered through Cover Oregon to individuals, families and small businesses.
“Insurance agents are important partners in this effort, and benefit from selling through Cover Oregon,” said Ronald Carter, a Chartered Life and Health Underwriter in Tigard. “Becoming an affiliated Cover Oregon insurance agent can give agents a new tool for assisting their current clients and an opportunity to expand their book of business. For me that means helping more Oregonians enjoy all the essential health benefits, including a greater focus on prevention and wellness.”
Working with a Cover Oregon certified insurance agent is free. On October 1, Oregonians can to go to CoverOregon.com to search for an agent in their area or can call 1-855-CoverOR (1-855-268-3767) to be connected to a certified agent. Agents can also go to the site to learn how to become certified.
About Cover Oregon
Cover Oregon is making health insurance more accessible and easier to understand. Cover Oregon is a new online marketplace where Oregonians can compare and enroll in medical and dental insurance that fits their needs and budget, and access financial help. More Oregonians can now get health insurance, even if they already have a health condition. Cover Oregon provides clear information on a range of insurance plans so individuals, families and small businesses can make side-by-side comparisons and choose the right plan for them. It includes health insurance from both private companies as well as Oregon Health Plan and Healthy Kids, for easy, one-stop shopping. Enrollment begins October 1. Learn more, check eligibility for financial help and sign up for updates at CoverOregon.com. You can also get free assistance from certified insurance agents or community partners, or from our trained specialists. To be sure you’re working with a certified agent or partner, visit CoverOregon.com or call 1-855-CoverOR (toll free 1-855-268-3767).
