Open enrollment for health insurance coverage underway

Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon is reminding Louisiana residents that open enrollment for health insurance coverage is November 1, 2023, through January 15, 2024. During this time, families can review their options and choose a plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Rate filings for plans on the Health Insurance Marketplace show an average rate increase of 1.3% in the individual market and 8.3% in the small group market.

Health insurers offering individual marketplace plans for 2024 are: Ambetter Health of Louisiana, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana, CHRISTUS Health Plan and United-Healthcare Insurance Company.

"Open enrollment is the time to take action and make informed decisions about your health care needs," said Commissioner Donelon. "I encourage families to shop around and speak with an agent before making a decision." The Louisiana Department of Insurance offers the following tips regarding open enrollment:

· Review your options. Plans and premiums can change each year, so confirm your doctors and medical providers are in the plan's network you choose.

· Meet deadlines. If you enroll in a plan by January 15, your coverage will begin February 1, 2024. If you do not elect coverage by January 15, you will be unable to get health care coverage unless you qualify for a Special Enrollment Period due to a qualifying life change.

· Contact an agent. A licensed health insurance agent can help you understand your options, answer any questions you may have and determine if you qualify for a premium tax credit.

About the Louisiana Department of Insurance: The Louisiana Department of Insurance works to improve competition in the state's insurance market while assisting individuals and businesses with the information and resources they need to be informed consumers of insurance.

As a regulator, the LDI enforces the laws that provide a fair and stable marketplace and makes certain that insurers comply with the laws in place to protect policyholders. You can contact the LDI by calling 1-800-259-5300 or visiting www.ldi.la.gov.