Shapiro administration urges farmers to enroll in health coverage through Pennie

The Shapiro administration is reminding Pennsylvania farmers that affordable, high-quality health insurance is available through Pennie, the state's official health insurance marketplace, with a key enrollment deadline approaching. Pennsylvanians must sign up by December 15 for coverage that begins January 1.

Officials from the Pennsylvania Insurance Department, Department of Agriculture, Pennie, and Pasa Sustainable Agriculture highlighted the importance of coverage during an event at Spiral Path Farm, noting that many farmers lack employer-provided insurance and face fluctuating income from season to season. Open Enrollment, they emphasized, is the best opportunity for farmers to find plans that meet their needs and budgets.

State officials stressed that Pennie remains the only marketplace where Pennsylvanians can qualify for financial savings through premium tax credits. However, enhanced federal tax credits that have lowered costs in recent years are set to expire December 31 without congressional action. If they are not renewed, many families could see steep rate increases. The Insurance Department pointed to one example: a 60-year-old married couple in York County earning $82,000 could see their annual premium jump from $7,032 to $35,712.

Pennie and state agencies have repeatedly urged Congress to extend the enhanced credits, saying rates could fall by three to five percent if lawmakers act soon. Pennie stands ready to update pricing as needed, but officials caution that time is limited.

All plans sold through Pennie must cover a broad range of medical services, including hospitalization, prescription drugs, maternity care, mental health care, and treatment for pre-existing conditions. Preventive services such as annual check-ups and screenings are also covered at no cost to consumers.

Pennie is offering free assistance to help residents navigate the enrollment process and choose plans. Certified experts—including enrollment assisters, health insurance brokers, and customer service representatives—are available in multiple languages by phone, online, or in person. Pennsylvanians can visit pennie.com or call 844-844-8040 for help. The Customer Service Center is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m., and Saturdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. throughout Open Enrollment.

State officials also urged consumers to be vigilant for scams during the enrollment period. Fraudulent websites, fake insurance agents, and unsolicited calls can put personal and financial information at risk. Residents are encouraged to verify licenses, avoid high-pressure sales tactics, and use only Pennie's official website or phone number when seeking coverage.

Consumers with concerns about their insurance can visit pa.gov/consumer or call 1-866-PA-COMPLAINT.

Source: pa.gov