New Mexico Health Insurance Exchange wants to reach people in the far flung corners of the state to let them know how they can buy a plan through the online marketplace and take advantage of available subsidies.
The Health Exchange issued a request this week seeking proposals to help with outreach and educational activities to boost enrollment in individual, family and small business group plans that are offered through the exchange website www.bewellnm.com.
The request for proposals said the Health Exchange intends to make multiple awards to ensure they reach all geographic areas of the state. Awards may range from under $20,000 up to a maximum of $95,000. The deadline to submit proposals is Oct. 7 and the Health Exchange expects to execute the contracts on Oct. 23.
The open enrollment period when people can sign-up or re-enroll in a plan begins on Nov. 1 and runs through January 31. Under the Affordable Care Act, individuals face tax penalties if they do not purchase insurance.
Open enrollment also offers anyone whose coverage is expiring on Dec. 31 — such as individuals with Blue Cross Blue Shield plans— an opportunity to shop for new health insurance.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico announced last month that it would not offer individual plans on the state health exchange in 2016.
Health Exchange spokeswoman Linda Wedeen said they will have to pick a new plan by Dec. 15 to ensure they have coverage on Jan. 1.
A total of 52,358 people purchased plans 2015 through the Health Exchange, a majority of those who enrolled were eligible for subsidies.
Counselors are also available to provide free enrollment advice at the New Mexico Health Insurance Exchange Enrollment and Assistance Center at 2301 San Pedro NE, Suite A.
Date: September 28, 2015