Health Care Reform
Health Care Reform
Thanks to the health care law called the Affordable Care Act, or what is sometimes referred to as Obamacare, many more people in Washington will have access to affordable health coverage starting in 2014. With the expansion of Medicaid and a new kind of tax credit, more individuals and families will qualify for free and low-cost health insurance.
Health Care Coverage in Washington State
In 2013 the Washington Health Benefit Exchange created a new online health insurance marketplace called the Washington Healthplanfinder, helping individuals and families shop for health insurance based on their needs and budget. Learn more.
Washington HealthPlanFinder
Under the ACA, individuals and families apply for health care coverage through Washington State’s Exchange called Washington Healthplanfinder. Enrollment in the Exchange Plans can only occur November 15th to February 15th of each year (Medicaid enrollment is available year round.) Free, low cost and market rate health insurance is available through this single portal for Washington residents.
For more information:
- Visit the Washington healthplanfinder website
- Call the Exchange Call Center at 1-855-WAFINDER (1-855-923-4633)
- Information is available in 175 languages via telephone interpreters
- Review the paper application for Health Care Coverage
- Access the paper application in 8 other languages (Form # is 18001P)
WithinReach can help professionals connect their clients to health insurance. For more information about applying on Washington Healthplanfinder, call the Family Health Hotline at 1-800-322-2588 or visit our Benefit Finder
Lead Organizations Provide In-Person Assistance
The WA Health Benefit Exchange selected 10 lead organizations across the state to provide in-person assistance to help residents enroll in health insurance plans through Washington Healthplanfinder. Learn more at wcomo.org
Additional resources
Washington Health Benefit Exchange
Washington State Health Care Authority
Washington Coalition on Medicaid Outreach
Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner