February 15, 2021 9:30 a.m.  

The COVID-19 special enrollment period for health coverage is open through May 15th.

A release from the Oregon Department of Consumer and Business Services said the special period allows people throughout the United States, including Oregonians, who are looking for health coverage, to shop at: https://www.healthcare.gov/

The release said the COVID-19 pandemic has brought significant change to hundreds of thousands of Oregonians, who either lost their job or experienced a loss in income. As a result, these Oregonians may be newly eligible for financial help to purchase health insurance. Unlike a typical special enrollment period, this one is available to everyone, not just people who have experienced a life event. The release said any person who is eligible to shop through the Marketplace may enroll in new coverage or change their current plan.

Insurance agents and community partner organizations throughout the state are available to help people apply for financial assistance and choose private plans.

The release said Oregonians who do not get health insurance through their job or a program such as the Oregon Health Plan or Medicare, may qualify for help paying for 2021 coverage through the Oregon Health Insurance Marketplace.

Go to: https://www.healthcare.gov/ for complete information.