It’s almost that time of year again -- open enrollment for your health insurance plan. If you’re an employer or employee, you are probably already sending and receiving memos about it! 

This annual window, falling between November 1st to December 15th, is the dedicated time frame to enroll in or make changes to national and private plans. 

Why is Enrollment Limited to an Annual Window for Most Insurance?

The simple answer: An open enrollment period is what makes “insurance” work. 

To collectively have coverage for those who need it, an insurance “pool” must contain more healthy people than sick ones.  If not, insurers would be more likely to reduce coverage, or refuse people for pre-existing conditions. 

A standardized open enrollment period for health coverage prevents people from waiting until they are sick to enroll just to claim benefits and then drop out. Therefore, most plans make new potential members wait for this revolving door to open each November. 

There are a few exceptions to this waiting game. 

For example, if someone experiences a “qualifying event” outside of the annual enrollment period, they would be able to sign up for individual or family insurance. Some qualifying events include the birth or adoption of a child, marriage or divorce, loss of other coverage, or becoming a US citizen. However, outside of annual enrollment or a qualifying event, health insurance can be difficult to obtain. 

This limited window can prove troublesome for employees and employers alike. While HealthChoice of Michigan does observe an open enrollment period, part of our mission is to help eliminate the worries and burdens of being without insurance.

How is HealthChoice of Michigan Different?. 

Created by the County of Wayne to reduce the number of uninsured and underinsured in our community, HealthChoice of Michigan’s programs are designed to help local employees and business owners get quality, affordable coverage -- especially if you’re currently without coverage.

HealthChoice of Michigan does have an open enrollment period for businesses already receiving coverage to change riders. 

For example, our open enrollment is an opportunity for employees without coverage to sign up if they have been employed for longer than 90 days. It also allows for employees to add spouses and/or dependents that do not have coverage and have been married or born more than 60 days ago. Businesses can add dental or vision coverage riders to their policy.

Outside of our open enrollment period, though, new businesses are allowed to join a plan at any time during the year!

If you’re choosing a plan for your business this open enrollment season, HealthChoice is the right choice. Our plans offer:

• Affordable, fixed premiums that fit your business budget
• No out-of-pocket costs for care
• A robust network of the best providers in Southeast Michigan

Learn more about the enrollment plans we offer and find out if your business qualifies by visiting our website: www.healthchoiceofmichigan.com Open Season on Enrollment: HealthChoice Hits the Target