Open enrollment for 2015 health care insurance begins Nov. 15

Beginning Saturday, consumers may shop through the health insurance marketplace at www.healthcare.gov for the 2015 coverage period.

“When open enrollment begins tomorrow, consumers who are renewing their coverage or signing up for the first time will have an opportunity to obtain quality health coverage at a price they can afford,” Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia M. Burwell said in a press release.

“Whether consumers visit the simpler, faster and more intuitive HealthCare.gov or contact the call center, they’re going to find more choices and competitive prices.”

The open enrollment period runs through Feb. 15, but consumers should enroll by Dec. 15 in order to have coverage beginning on Jan. 1.

According to the release, about 85% of those who enrolled through the marketplace last year received some financial assistance applied to their premium.

“Tomorrow marks the beginning of an intense open enrollment and public education campaign for the marketplace,” Marilyn Tavenner, CMS administrator, said in the release. “We want consumers to visit the marketplace, compare their options, see if they qualify for lower costs, and re-enroll or get new coverage that best meets their needs and budget.”

The release said the application process has been made easier, and comparison tools are simpler to use. Up to 90% of a previous applicant’s information will be prefilled, and the number of screens to complete the process has been reduced from 76 to 16.

Consumers also can purchase coverage using a smartphone or tablet in addition to a computer, or they can call the center at 800-318-2596. Small businesses and their employees are advised to call 800-706-7893.