Covered California on Tuesday was pushing for San Diegans to take advantage of lower-cost health insurance thanks to a new federal law, the American Rescue Plan.
Covered California is the state’s health insurance marketplace, where Californians can find affordable insurance from various companies.
The American Rescue Plan, recently passed by Congress, makes 2.5 million Californians eligible for lower health care costs or new coverage if they’re uninsured.
Previously, Covered California extended its open enrollment period through May 15 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the new law means that Californians have until the end of the year to sign up for health coverage.
In San Diego, there are approximately 72,000 uninsured people and 22,000 who are insured but may save money through the state marketplace. About 81,000 San Diegans are eligible for low-cost or free Medi-Cal.
Covered California executive director Peter Lee said 100,000 San Diegans who already have insurance through Covered California will all see lower premiums starting in May.
“The COVID pandemic has had huge health effects, but huge economic effects," Lee said. "The communities hardest hit economically; communities of color, low-income communities; those are exactly the communities targeted by the American Rescue Plan.”
The sooner residents sign up for health coverage, the more money they could save, he said.
San Diegans who were not eligible in the past may now be eligible through The American Rescue Plan. Consumers are encouraged to visit Covered California’s website to check their eligibility.
Residents need to sign up by April 30 to have coverage starting May 1.
