Health insurance marketplace opens in state on Nov. 1

OKLAHOMA CITY — The health insurance marketplace in Oklahoma is set to open its doors for the 2024 coverage year on Nov. 1.

This marks the first day when individuals and families can enroll in, re-enroll in, or make changes to their health insurance plans.

Key Dates to Remember:

Nov. 1: Open enrollment commences

Starting from Nov. 1, residents can explore the various health insurance options available through the Marketplace in Oklahoma. This is a chance to find a plan that suits individual needs and budget.

Dec. 15: Deadline for coverage starting Jan. 1

To ensure health coverage begins on Jan. 1, 2024, make sure to enroll or make any plan changes by Dec. 15 to avoid a gap in coverage.

Seven insurers will offer individual health plans for 2024 — Blue Cross Blue Shield of Oklahoma (BCBSOK), Medica Insurance Company, Oscar Health, UnitedHealthCare (UHC), CommunityCare Oklahoma (CCOK), Ambetter of Oklahoma and Taro Health (New for 2024).

BCBSOK will offer a statewide plan while the other carriers' plans will be available in selected counties in Oklahoma. These carriers will provide a range of health plans tailored to meet the diverse needs of Oklahoma residents.

Taro Health is a new addition to the marketplace for 2024, offering choices for Oklahomans seeking health coverage. The addition of this insurer helps to ensure that individuals and families can find plans that align with their healthcare needs and financial circumstances. Taro Health will be available in the Oklahoma City metro area.

"Rising health costs and provider reimbursement rates will put pressure on premiums in 2024," Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready said.

"It's crucial to act promptly during this open enrollment period to secure the best health coverage you need for you and your family. I encourage you to visit healthcare.gov and take the time to see which plan best fits your needs."

Mulready added that the cost of healthcare is rising as demand increases and says it's important now more than ever that people are insured.

Last year, nearly 183,000 Oklahomans who renewed or purchased plans during open enrollment averaged a $73 per month premium after federal subsidies.

Plan options, monthly premiums and total annual out-of-pocket costs for 2024 will be available at www.healthcare.gov/see-plans/ later this month upon release of this information by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

The Oklahoma Insurance Department, an agency of the State of Oklahoma, is responsible for the education and protection of the insurance-buying public and for oversight of the insurance industry in the state.

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