Reduced-cost options are available for those still without health insurance

Several new options are available to help people pay for health insurance and health care, but the deadline to enroll in some plans is March 31.

Individuals earning up to $45,960 and a family of four earning up to $94,200 can get financial help to pay for a plan through the Connect for Health Colorado Marketplace. In addition, more people in Colorado now are eligible for free coverage through Medicaid.

All plans cover important benefits such as doctor visits, hospitalizations, prescriptions and more. Most preventive care is covered at no cost.

Larimer Health Connect is a free local service offering unbiased in-person assistance to help people find the best insurance option for their situation. Certified Health Coverage Guides can help people determine their eligibility for plans and financial assistance, create an account, compare insurance plans and enroll in the best option.

March 31 is the last day to sign up for health insurance from the Connect for Health Colorado Marketplace until open enrollment resumes Nov. 15. It is also the last day for people to have health insurance coverage so they avoid paying extra taxes. There are no deadlines to apply for Medicaid or Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+).

Additionally, people may sign up for a Marketplace health plan any time during the year if they have a major life change. Major life changes include such things as changing or losing a job, getting married or divorced or having a child. Larimer Health Connect can help people update a plan or enroll in a new plan after a life-change event.

It can take time to choose and sign up for the right insurance plan, but people can schedule as many free appointments with Larimer Health Connect as needed. Larimer Health Connect encourages people to make appointments now and not miss the opportunity to get free, in-person assistance.

In-person assistance is available at several locations throughout Larimer County. Appointments are strongly recommended. For information or to make an appointment, people can call 970-472-0444 or visit www.larimerhealthconnect.org.

Larimer Health Connect is a program of the Health District of Northern Larimer County. The Health District is a public agency that provides dental, mental health, prescription assistance and health promotion services to the residents of northern Larimer County.