Health insurance enrollment deadline is Dec. 15

The deadline for Montanans to sign up for 2019 health insurance through the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services is Saturday, Dec. 15.

If residents wanting insurance coverage miss the deadline, they will not be covered in 2019 unless they qualify for a Special Enrollment Period that includes individuals who have had certain life events occur, such as moving, getting married, or giving birth.

The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services sent out a press release urging Montana residents — those either seeking continued coverage or signing up for the first time — to update their information and select a plan that best fits their needs.

Regional Administrator for Medicare and Medicaid Services Jeff Hinson said the application process is “seamless” and the website has been updated with “improved content and help information to make it easier for people to understand.”

According to press release, since open enrollment began Nov. 1, more than 15,000 Montanans selected a plan offered through the federal government, a number that is expected to increase between now and the enrollment deadline.

For more information regarding plans that are offered, residents can go to Healthcare.gov or call 1-800-318-2596.