Pennie, the health insurance marketplace connection platform, has set an enrollment record. A total of 338,000 Pennsylvanians have obtained health insurance through the organization’s database. New enrollments increased by 9.7%.
In Philadelphia, 42,417 residents enrolled in the last period in the ranks of the health care provider. This increase includes 2,401 Latinos.
Beyond these good numbers, Pennie has added one more value to its offering. It is providing more time to enroll in plans for COVID-19 affected people. Pennsylvanians impacted by the pandemic can visit pennie.com and enroll in a plan from February 15 through May 15.
You can read:Independence and Pennie: Reliable Health Insurance companies
The health platform has expanded access to quality coverage. It has achieved a smooth transition from Healthcare.Gov. It has also connected more customers to the financial assistance for which they were eligible.
Pennie operates through the implementation of a state-based marketplace and premium savings realized through the Pennsylvania and Commonwealth Reinsurance Program.
Pennie: An official voice
Zachary W. Sherman, the organization’s Executive Director, said services are targeted to Pennsylvanians in need of health care coverage. “We are happy to see our customer base grow and proud to serve hundreds of thousands of individuals and families across the Commonwealth.”
Open enrollment from 02/15 to 5/15
“Pennie’s support does not end with Open Enrollment. The economic and public health implications of the pandemic have been and continue to be destabilizing, impacting the lives of so many Pennsylvanians. Anyone without health insurance will have more time to sign up through Pennie, giving those eligible access to financial assistance and comprehensive coverage, including for COVID-19 related treatment and services. Starting on February 15, we encourage uninsured Pennsylvanians to visit pennie.com to explore their options and get coverage.”
Latinos with coverage
Latin American users are of great interest to the organization. Its services are offered on digital platforms in Spanish. The number of this minority for this new coverage is 2,401 policyholders.
This group is made up of 55% women and 45% men. The age group that seeks insurance for Hispanics is between 26 and 64 years of age. They account for 87% of the policyholders. Insured persons from 0 to 25 years of age represent 11% of the total and those over 65 years of age represent 2%.
Nearly 9 out of 10 Pennie customers receive financial assistance, and the savings increased this year. Average monthly premiums decreased 4% year-over-year and customers receiving Advance Premium Tax Credits (APTCs) are paying 13.5 percent on average less this year. The average monthly APTC for eligible customers is $515.
The care you deserve
Brett Mayfield, Independence Blue Cross Senior Vice president and Market President pointed out the importance of having proper health coverage. “We are pleased that so many in our region enrolled in health insurance coverage through Pennie. During the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic, now more than ever it is important to have the peace of mind that comes with an Independence Blue Cross card,” Mayfield said. He added that “with Independence, members have access to the care they need, when they need it. We offer the most popular health plan options, access to the most doctors and hospitals, and zero-dollar virtual care visits in every metallic level plan.”
“For those who don’t have coverage through an employer or government program, there is still time to sign up. Because of the pandemic, the deadline has been extended to May 15. Independence has licensed, Spanish-speaking sales agents available by phone at 1-844-315-4884 and an easy-to-use Spanish-language website, ibx.com/mas. We can also help consumers find out if they qualify for financial assistance to help pay for their health insurance plan.”
Translated by: José Espinoza
Latinx Newswire
