Though consumers can anticipate some changes, the process remains the same for the New Mexico health exchange

Albuquerque, NM – Open Enrollment for health insurance coverage in 2018 began on November 1, 2017. BeWellnm, New Mexico's health insurance exchange, wants to ensure the community is well equipped to enroll. Before deciding on a plan, beWellnm advises New Mexicans read these top six important things to know for Open Enrollment:

The 2018 Open Enrollment period is shorter than previous years
Beginning November 1 and extending through December 15, 2017, Open Enrollment for healthcare coverage in 2018 runs for 45 days only. Consumers are urged to plan accordingly and seek information about their options well in advance of the closing date.

Though premium increases have been approved, rates will vary
Regulators have approved increases for insurance premiums requested by the four beWellnm insurance carriers, but the average premium increase for 2018 will vary. Individual subsidies are also still available. Consumers are encouraged to compare a variety of plans to identify which fits their needs and budget.

Missing Open Enrollment may lead to a penalty
Should you miss the open enrollment window and don't qualify for a special enrollment period, Medicaid, Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), or employer-based coverage, you may face no other option than to pay the penalty fee.

Healthcare mandates are still in effect despite recent changes to the Affordable Care Act
Despite recent executive actions, the Affordable Care Act (ACA) remains law and individuals who elect not to enroll in healthcare by December 15, unless qualified for special enrollment, should expect to pay a penalty.

New Mexicans will see the same insurance carriers for the 2018 Open Enrollment
No changes have been made to the insurance carriers offering coverage through beWellnm. Those carriers are: Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Mexico, Christus Health Plan, Molina Healthcare and New Mexico Health Connections.

A number of resources are available to help guide individuals through the process
BeWellnm offers a number of free resources and events for individuals seeking more information during Open Enrollment. These resources include:

• Community Enrollment Events - Free events held at Albuquerque-based Catholic Charities providing the opportunity for community members to schedule one-on-one appointments with agents and brokers to discuss their health insurance coverage options. A computer room will be available for those who are comfortable enrolling on their own with assistance as needed with dates as listed below:

• Certified Agents and Brokers are available at no cost to the enrollee. They assist in helping consumers find the best plan for their needs and serve as a guide through the enrollment process. Agents and Brokers are accessible across the state, visit: http://www.bewellnm.com/Find-Broker to find one nearest you or call 833-ToBeWell (833-862-3935).
• Open Enrollment Centers - Free, in-person assistance (in Spanish and English) is available at Enrollment Centers across the state, including: Albuquerque, Gallup, Las Cruces, and Santa Fe. The location, time, and other details can be found at: https://www.bewellnm.com/Get-Help/Enrollment-Centers
• Enrollment Counselors- Free in person assistance, are available across the state. The locations and other details can be found at https://www.bewellnm.com/Find-Counselor
• The New Mexico Office of Superintendent of Insurance (OSI) plan comparison tool – The easy-to-use 5-step tool, developed in partnership with nonprofit Consumer's Checkbook, allows consumers to compare plans available in their area.. The Plan Comparison Tool is available at OSIcomparehealthplans.org.

For more information on the upcoming open enrollment period or to schedule an appointment with an agent, broker or Enrollment Counselor, visit www.beWellnm.com or call 1-833-ToBeWell.

About beWellnm, New Mexico's Health Insurance Exchange
BeWellnm was created to help individuals and small businesses get access to affordable health insurance plans. BeWellnm helps consumers compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and budget. BeWellnm also helps individuals determine whether they are eligible for premium assistance and if so, at what level. Through beWellnm for Small Business, small businesses are able to purchase competitively priced health insurance plans and offer their employees the ability to choose from an array of plans. Enrollment Counselors and insurance agents are available throughout the state to help with signing up for health insurance.

To find more information on beWellnm, New Mexico's Health Insurance Exchange, visit www.beWellnm.com or call us at 1-833-ToBeWell.

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Contact: Tom Garrity, The Garrity Group, 505-898-8689 or tom@garritypr.com