Get Covered, Stay Covered: It’s Open Enrollment Time

Nov 6, 2018 | News

Community Health Programs offers in-person assistance during the Massachusetts Health Connector’s open enrollment period, which began Nov. 1 and runs through Jan. 23, 2019.

“Health insurance renewal is not automatic for people covered through the MAHealthConnector, and you still need to review if your current medical plan is adequate or your circumstances have changed,” said Octavio Hernandez, senior enrollment specialist at CHP Great Barrington Health Center. “And anyone seeking help to purchase medical insurance for the first time should get the process started in November.”

Octavio Hernandez,
senior enrollment specialist,
CHP Great Barrington Health Center 


CHP enrollment specialists can assist income-eligible residents who are renewing their insurance and those who are applying for first-time coverage. CHP specialists are available to assist anyone, not only CHP patients.

Income-eligible people who do not have insurance through an employer must apply for private health insurance through the Health Connector program. ConnectorCare’s plans are subsidized by both federal and state government. 

Residents whose income is very low are typically covered by MassHealth and are not subject to this open enrollment season or penalties.

Higher-income people without workplace insurance are also required to purchase a health plan or face a penalty.

William Cruz, enrollment specialist, Neighborhood Health Center, Pittsfield

Applicants have the option of renewing or enrolling online at mahealthconnector.org. However, for those in need of assistance, help is available at some of CHP’s medical practice locations in Berkshire County. For an appointment, contact CHP Great Barrington Health Center, (413) 528-8580, or CHP Neighborhood Health Center in Pittsfield, (413 ) 447-2351.

For more information on applying or re-applying for private insurance through MAHealth Connector, visit https://www.mahealthconnector.org/connectorcare

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