Insurance open enrollment periods approaching

The Wyoming Department of Insurance has announced now is the time for all Wyoming consumers to evaluate their health insurance choices for the coming year.

Those who get health insurance through an employer should check with their company’s human resources representative about open enrollment dates for that company’s insurance group.

Open enrollment for those insured under the Affordable Care Act is from Nov. 1 to Dec. 15, and open enrollment for Medicare coverage starts this month – on Oct. 15 – and continues to Dec. 7.

According to the state insurance department, now is the time for those on Medicare to change their health plans and prescription drug coverage for 2021 to better meet their needs. Even those who don’t need to make changes can take this time to review their coverage.

Those insured under the Affordable Care Act must enroll for coverage under that plan by Dec. 15 or they will not get 2021 coverage. The only exception is for those who qualify for a Special Enrollment Period Plan that will be sold during open enrollment starting Jan. 1 next year.

In addition to insurance agents, the federal government has trained Navigators and certified assisters in Wyoming who can provide help at no cost. To find help, go online to www.HealthCare.gov, or contact Wyoming 2-1-1 (dial 2-1-1 or 888-425-7138) or go online to Wyoming211.org for in-person assistance from a Wyoming Navigator.