LAS VEGAS, NV (KXNT) - Nevadans have until the end of today to enroll in a Qualified Health Plan through Nevada Health Link, the online health insurance marketplace operated by the state agency, the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange, which announced an Exceptional Circumstance Special Enrollment Period (SEP) in March for qualified Nevadans who missed the Open Enrollment Period (OEP).
The SEP, originally introduced in response to Governor Sisolak’s March 12th Emergency Declaration, runs through May 15. Consumers who enroll by Friday will have coverage effective June 1, 2020.
Nevada Health Link’s qualified health plans cover the ten essential health benefits mandated by the Affordable Care Act. In addition to pre-existing conditions, this includes emergency and ambulatory services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, prescription drugs, lab services and mental health services.
Consumers should know that care related to COVID-19 is covered by all plans offered through Nevada Health Link. Nevada Health Link is the only place Nevadans can access subsidies to help offset the costs of insurance, and over 80 percent of consumers who purchase a plan are eligible for financial assistance.
Individuals seeking a special enrollment are encouraged to contact the Customer Assistance Call Center between 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday-Friday at 1-800-547-2927; TTY: 711. The Exchange recommends working with a certified broker or navigator to enroll in the SEP. Nevada Health Link offers language assistance and if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a disability, accommodations are provided at no cost.
Nevada Health Link wants to clarify that insurance is NOT required to be tested for COVID-19; and the emergency regulation signed by the Governor provides that there is no cost to consumers for medical services related to testing for COVID-19. Nevada Health Link also recommends consumers who are having a hard time paying their monthly premiums to contact their health insurance carrier directlyrather than canceling their health insurance plans since they might be eligible for payment grace periods.
Consumers who recently lost their job or had a change in income may be eligible to receive more subsidy assistance to help pay for their health plans. These changes must be reported to Nevada Health Link for eligibility determination.