Oregonians slow to sign up for health insurance through HealthCare.gov

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An image from an ad put out by Cover Oregon to encourage enrollment through HealthCare.gov.

Elizabeth Hayes

Staff Reporter- Portland Business Journal

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The Oregon health insurance exchange, 2.0 version, appears to be in working order, in contrast to last year at this time when Cover Oregon was sputtering.

As of Nov. 30, 7,185 state residents had enrolled through the federal exchange, HealthCare.gov. Another 12,035 enrolled outside of the exchange, for 19,220 total, according to the Oregon Insurance Division.

Consumers have 10 more days to enroll in private plans in order to be assured of coverage on Jan. 1.

But just because they've enrolled doesn't necessarily mean they're covered. They still need to pay their first month's premium for their coverage to be effective.

"People tend to wait until the last minute, but it's important that you don't wait too long. Even if you have an opportunity to renew your plan, we encourage you to visit HealthCare.gov and shop around," said Oregon Insurance Commissioner Laura Cali. "Your plan may have changed, and you may have different health or financial needs this year. Oregon's competitive market means you have lots of choices."

There's still a long way to go for enrollment to catch up to the total from last year when 76,000 Oregonians signed up for 2014 coverage using Cover Oregon. The numbers were achieved despite a website that never functioned properly.

Open enrollment actually lasts until Feb. 15. The only place for Oregonians to receive tax credits through HealthCare.gov.

Cover Oregon is currently holding open house events around the state to help people sign up for coverage.

Elizabeth Hayes covers health care for the Portland Business Journal.