Washington, DC­­ – Today, the DC Health Benefit Exchange Authority (HBX) released preliminary individual marketplace data for the fourth open enrollment period for DCHealthLink.com, the District’s online health insurance marketplace for individuals, families and small businesses.

These preliminary data show that through December 19, 2016:

• 4,123 new customers have completed their insurance applications and selected a health plan;
• New enrollments are up 47% over the same time last year (4,123 compared to 2,800);
• 2,486 of new customers are 34 years old and younger;
• Customers 34 years old and younger represent 60% of new enrollments compared to 48% of existing customers.

Since October 1, 2013 when DC Health Link opened for business, approximately 290,000 people have come through DC Health Link: nearly 40,000 people enrolled in private health insurance through the individual marketplace; more than 176,000 people have been determined eligible for Medicaid; and more than 72,000 have had coverage through the DC Health Link Small Business Marketplace (SHOP), which includes people covered through small businesses in the District and Members and staff from the U.S. Congress.

Background

Open Enrollment for individuals and families ends January 31, 2017. There are 20 private health insurance options (including 2 catastrophic plans) that fit all budgets from CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield and Kaiser Permanente for individuals and families. To help customers shop, a decision support tool Plan Match is available. Free expert help is available from DC Health Link brokers and navigators. Premium reductions are available depending on income. Eligible District residents can enroll in a health insurance plan online at DCHealthLink.com or by calling (855) 532-LINK [5465]. Residents can apply for Medicaid throughout the year. For 2017, small businesses have 151 health plan options from Aetna, CareFirst, Kaiser and United. Small businesses can sign up throughout the year.