Kansans with questions about the Health Insurance Marketplace now have an easy-to-remember phone number to get answers to questions and find local, personal enrollment assistance. The 2-1-1 phone service – operated by the United Way of the Plains – is a confidential resource that helps people across the state find essential, local resources such as workforce services, shelter, utilities, food pantries and medical services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“2-1-1 has proven to be an indispensable statewide resource, and the Cover Kansas Coalition welcomes this opportunity for partnership as we strive to reduce the number of uninsured in Kansas,” said Paige Ashley, Cover Kansas Coalition Coordinator. If a 2-1-1 caller expresses interest, they will be referred to an unbiased, trained Navigator or Certified Application Counselor who can help them review their eligibility for financial assistance, compare health insurance plans and enroll in a plan that meets their needs.

In-person assisters helped many of the 101,550 Kansans enroll in health coverage through the Marketplace during the 2015-2016 enrollment period. This year’s open enrollment period runs from November 1, 2016 through January 31, 2017. Many Kansans may be eligible for the Advanced Premium Tax Credits, which help lower monthly insurance premiums. Some may also qualify for Cost Sharing Reductions, which lower the out-of-pocket costs associated with Marketplace plans. In addition to calling 2-1-1, people seeking health insurance can visit coverks.org to find an assister in their community and schedule an appointment.