HHS teams up with pharmacies for health insurance sign-ups

While approximately 6 million Americans have either re-enrolled or signed up for health coverage for the first time through the Health Insurance Marketplace so far, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has partnered with several pharmacies around the nation to encourage even more individuals to sign up.

Among those collaborating with HHS are CVS Health, Walgreens, Good Neighborhood Pharmacy, Rite Aid, Thrifty White Pharmacy and the National Community Pharmacists Association.

The pharmacies are making numerous efforts to help people find insurance plans that are affordable and accommodate their health care needs. In addition to having enrollment assistants or insurance agents on hand to help customers, the pharmacies will also distribute educational materials related to the Marketplace and hold enrollment events. They are also using their respective websites to promote enrollment and provide more information on obtaining health insurance.

“We are proud to have thousands of trusted pharmacists and pharmacies working to reach millions of consumers with the information and resources they need to enroll in quality, affordable health coverage this Open Enrollment,” HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell said. “This strong participation is further indication that businesses are investing in Open Enrollment because they believe it is good for their business and for their customers.”

Although the deadline for coverage beginning Jan. 1 has ended, the Open Enrollment Period for 2016 health care coverage ends on Jan. 31. Individuals can still sign up for coverage that would take effect either in February or March.