AUGUSTA — The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has announced that the fourth annual Open Enrollment period for health insurance will begin on Friday, November 1, 2024. This enrollment is crucial for residents without health or dental insurance through employers, Medicare, or MaineCare, the state’s Medicaid program.
Open Enrollment will run from November 1, 2024, to January 15, 2025. Mainers can visit CoverME.gov to compare private health plans, apply for financial assistance, and enroll in health and dental insurance for 2025.
To ensure coverage begins on January 1, 2025, consumers must enroll by December 15. The final day to sign up for 2025 coverage is January 15, 2025, with benefits starting on February 1, 2025. This period is the only opportunity for most consumers to enroll in plans through CoverME.gov, unless they qualify for a special enrollment due to life events, such as losing job-based insurance, changes in marital status, or the birth of a child.
Governor Janet Mills urged residents to explore their options. “I encourage Maine people to visit CoverME.gov to explore their options and help ensure that no one goes without health insurance that could save their life,” she stated. “Enrolling by December 15 will prevent any gaps in coverage.”
DHHS Commissioner Sara Gagné-Holmes emphasized the importance of affordable coverage. “We encourage all Mainers who need health or dental insurance to visit CoverME.gov during Open Enrollment to find coverage that fits their needs,” she said. “Having insurance is vital for maintaining health, and CoverME.gov offers affordable options for doctor visits, prescriptions, mental health services, emergencies, and hospital care.”
Plans available through CoverME.gov provide comprehensive coverage, including full payment for preventive screenings and protection against major accidents or illnesses. Thanks to enhanced premium tax credits, thousands of Mainers will save an average of $560 per month on their healthcare premiums in 2025. Currently, 85% of individuals enrolled qualify for financial assistance.
Those already enrolled in CoverME.gov will be automatically placed in the plan that most closely resembles their current coverage unless they take action during Open Enrollment. The DHHS encourages re-enrollees to review their plans to ensure they meet their healthcare needs and financial situation.
Lori Austin, a resident of Hancock, shared her experience: “I understand people think health insurance is going to be prohibitively expensive, but I would encourage people to visit CoverME.gov for a quote. With subsidies, it becomes affordable. Having coverage gives me peace of mind, which is invaluable.”
The Consumer Assistance Center will operate Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., with extended hours on select weekends and leading up to the enrollment deadline.
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