HARRISBURG (TNS) — Pennsylvanians have less than a month to sign up for state-assisted health insurance. Dec. 15 is the final day to sign up for coverage, which begins in January 2025.
This health insurance program is called Pennie, which is an independently run self-funded agency that works closely with Pa. Insurance Department (PID) and Department of Human Services (DHS).
According to Pennie’s website, it is dedicated to helping cover essential services, including hospital care, mental health services, prescriptions, and maternity care.
According to state officials, nine out of 10 Pennie customers qualify for financial savings through tax credits to help reduce monthly payments and out-of-pocket costs.
In a press release, Pennsylvania Insurance Commissioner Michael Humphreys said Pa. residents should look at the options to see if there are ways Pennie could be more beneficial to them.
“This Open Enrollment period is the best time to explore available options and shop around to find a plan — even if you already have insurance. Quality, comprehensive health care coverage has never been more affordable or more within reach for Pennsylvanians,” Humphreys said. “PID’s focus on increasing Marketplace competition has delivered more choices and greater affordability for consumers across the Commonwealth.”
Pennie Executive Director Devon Trolley made similar remarks, noting that over 400,000 Pa. residents already use the state’s services.
“We encourage anyone without coverage to join over 430,000 Pennsylvanians who have secured health insurance through Pennie,” Trolley said. “You can find everything you need at pennie.com to gain peace of mind with quality health insurance. If you wait until you need medical care, it will be too late. Health coverage helps protect you from unexpected medical costs and provides access to preventive services to address health concerns early.”
Pennie coverage also partners with Pa.’s Medicaid program to help pick up where that coverage may have fallen short. Those who are ineligible for Medicaid are automatically transferred to Pennie to ensure they still have a quality health plan.
Residents found ineligible for Medicaid in 2024 and without coverage are encouraged to use this open enrollment period to explore their options.
To start coverage on Jan. 1, Pa. residents must enroll by Dec. 15. Current Pennie users should update their household size, income, and contact information to ensure their selected plan works.
For more information on coverage through Pennie, Pa. residents can call their customer service number at (844) 844-8040 or visit pennie.com.
