OLYMPIA, WA – In 2019, Washington State was the first state to approve a lower-cost health insurance option aimed at providing high-quality, low-cost health plans as part of Washington Health Benefit Exchange. The recent open enrollment period posted encouraging figures. Nearly 37,000 new customers signed up for coverage through the Washington Healthplanfinder, the largest net gain to date.
“More than 60% of customers that found coverage through the exchange chose subsidized Cascade Care or public-option Cascade Care Savings plans. Enrollment in Cascade Care plans by customers in Eastern Washington soared by 200% in some counties,” according to Governor Jay Inslee’s office. “Customer savings are substantial. More than 36% of Washingtonians that purchased health coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder now pay less than $100 per month for health coverage. The public option plan is now available in 34 (up from 25 last year) of Washington’s 39 counties, and it is the lowest-cost health plan in 25 counties.”
This program is helping diverse, low-income populations across the state. Between Cascade Care Savings and federal subsidies, 76% of customers receive a subsidy that helps reduce their monthly premiums. The number of individuals and families receiving Cascade Care Savings is expected to grow throughout the year due to the monthly Cascade Care Savings Special Enrollment Period and the upcoming Medicaid unwind.
It is not too late for customers who are unsure whether they qualify for Cascade Care Savings to visit wahealthplanfinder.org and sign up for 2023 coverage if found eligible.
