Seattle artist friends without health insurance, please note that due to COVID-19 the marketplace is opening up again, you have a chance to be covered more effectively during this outbreak. Stay safe and get covered!
I know this seems like an inopportune time to add costs, but the smart play here is to switch to a low-deductible, high-premium plan until November. You do NOT want to get stuck with a hospital bill for a mandatory quarantine. I can't even believe I have to say these words, but that's where we are in America right now.
According to the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner, as of a few days ago, "No steps have been taken to date that would help Seattle-area residents pay for care related to COVID-19, other than testing."
There is a likely very low chance that the federal government will bail out healthcare costs, and there is a much higher chance that King County will step up reimbursements but as it stands right now, if you are mandated to go to a hospital, you are going to foot the bill.
See press release below and link at bottom to get coverage.
Washington Healthplanfinder Announces Special Enrollment Period in Response to Growing Coronavirus Outbreak
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
March 10, 2020
OLYMPIA, Wash. – In response to the potential growth of Coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, the Washington Health Benefit Exchange (Exchange) today announced a limited-time special enrollment period for qualified individuals who are currently without insurance. This special enrollment period (SEP), that runs through April 8, 2020, will allow uninsured individuals 30 days to enroll in health insurance coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder.
Until April 8, individuals seeking a special enrollment must contact the Customer Support Center between 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday at 1-855-923-4633; TTY: 1-855-627-9604, or a local certified broker or navigator, request the SEP, and select a plan by April 8 for coverage start date beginning April 1, 2020. Language assistance and disability accommodations are provided at no cost.
“It is apparent that many in our state have been exposed to this virus and that health insurance will be critical to those seeking treatment,” said Exchange Chief Executive Officer Pam MacEwan. “Individuals need to have peace of mind to take care of all health needs, especially if they are at a high risk. Given today’s exceptional circumstances we are enabling those who are uninsured to enroll and gain access to the vital services they may need.”
Customers who experience another qualifying event (such as marriage, birth of a child or a move) are also eligible to shop for coverage and/or those who qualify for Medicaid through Washington Apple Health is available year round on Washington Healthplanfinder.
Reminders: Enrollment is offered year-round to individuals and families through Washington Apple Health (Medicaid). Customers enrolled in Apple Health will receive a notice of 60 days before the month they enrolled in or renewed their coverage last year. https://www.wahealthplanfinder.org/