Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department will make sure local residents get the help they need to access health insurance during open enrollment, now through Jan. 31, 2016.
Those who are less comfortable working through the process online or by phone can instead get help from a person who is a part of a network of health insurance navigators at local community organizations. Any resident who wants in-person help to enroll for health insurance can call (253) 798-3481 or email navigator@tpchd.org for a referral to a navigator. Once referred, the navigator will contact the resident to set up an appointment for in-person help.
Navigators provide free, in-person support to help direct residents through the Washington Healthplanfinder enrollment process and decrease the rate of uninsured in our state.
Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department trains and certifies navigators working at these local organizations:
- Asia Pacific Cultural Center
- Community Health Care
- Pierce County Community Healthcare Alliance
- Sound Outreach
- Tacoma Urban League
In September, the Washington Health Benefit Exchange announced that Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department would continue as one of the state’s nine lead organizations to provide in-person assistance as part of the Washington Healthplanfinder customer support network. Lead organizations include public health agencies, regional health networks and other community organizations.
The Health Department’s efforts will provide impartial information to residents to help determine which health insurance options best fits their needs. These efforts may take place through in-person meetings, online communications and over the phone.
“We are pleased to continue our work with community partners to make sure that everyone can get the health care coverage they need to take steps to improve their health,” said Anthony L-T Chen, MD, MPH, director of health.
Most people qualify for help with their insurance through Medicaid or tax credits, which cover premiums. Penalties for remaining uninsured in 2016 are higher. For an uninsured adult it’s $695. For each child the penalty starts at $347.50.
Learn more about local insurance help at www.tpchd.org/healthcarereform. Visit wahealthplanfinder.org to learn more about Washington Healthplanfinder.
