Local Libraries Open Doors To Communities For Covered California Enrollment

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — In response to high public interest in signing up for health care coverage, Covered California™ is partnering with local libraries to host a series of education and enrollment days during December.

“Local libraries have a long history as community gathering spots, and the public has come to trust libraries as places to get accurate information and receive assistance,” said Covered California Executive Director Peter V. Lee. “This partnership allows us to leverage resources, getting much-needed help to people who have limited Internet access or need a certified in-person assister to guide them through enrollment.”

This week, teams of Certified Educators, Certified Enrollment Counselors and Certified Insurance Agents are available at libraries across the state. The assisters explain health care options — including individual insurance plans, eligibility for federal subsidies and qualification for low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal coverage — to consumers.  

Consumers who bring proof of legal residency, Social Security numbers for members of their households and proof of income can work with an on-site Certified Enrollment Counselor or Certified Insurance Agent to select a health insurance plan that suits their medical needs and budget.

To see a list of participating libraries, consumers can visit the Covered California website at www.CoveredCA.com and click on the section titled “Events Near You.” Covered California is building partnerships with additional libraries and will continue adding new locations to the list.

Covered California anticipates libraries will become valuable hubs for health care education and enrollment beyond December and throughout open-enrollment periods.

Covered California is the state’s marketplace for the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Covered California, in partnership with the California Department of Health Care Services, was charged with creating a new health insurance marketplace in which individuals and small businesses can get access to affordable health insurance plans. With coverage starting in 2014, Covered California helps individuals determine whether they are eligible for premium assistance that is available on a sliding-scale basis to reduce insurance costs or whether they are eligible for low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and budget. Small businesses can purchase competitively priced health insurance plans and offer their employees the ability to choose from an array of plans and may qualify for federal tax credits.

Covered California is an independent part of the state government whose job is to make the new market work for California’s consumers. It is overseen by a five-member board appointed by the Governor and the Legislature. For more information on Covered California, please visit www.CoveredCA.com.