Coronavirus Outbreak Prompts Special Enrollment Period

OLYMPIA, WA — Washington's state health insurance exchange has opened for new enrollment amid a growing outbreak of the new coronavirus. COVID-19 has sickened at least 165 people in Washington, and 22 people have died.

According to Washington Healthplanfinder, people without insurance can enroll in a plan through April 8, 2020.

"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 Pam MacEwan, the exchange's chief executive. "Given today's exceptional circumstances we are enabling those who are uninsured to enroll and gain access to the vital services they may need."

Those who qualify for Medicaid may apply for Washington Apple Health year-round.

How to enroll:

"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."

Last week, Washington Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler ordered state insurers to waive copays and deductibles for anyone requiring testing for COVID-19. Vice President Mike Pence announced Tuesday that a group of private health insurers agreed to expand coronavirus coverage in their plans and waive co-payment fees for tests. Reuters reports Pence did not indicate what protections might be in place for uninsured Americans.

Visit the Washington Health Benefit Exchange here.