Despite Challenges, Covered California Reinforces Commitment to Connecting Californians to Health Insurance During Bay Area Visit

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OAKLAND, Calif. - Covered California made a visit to the Bay Area to emphasize its commitment to support Californians signing up for or renewing their health insurance coverage during the current Open Enrollment period, which ends January 31. This is happening amid uncertainty and ongoing debate over Enhanced Premium Tax Credits that have delivered greater affordability and record enrollment across the nation.

Covered California's Executive Director Jessica Altman visited with the Oakland community at Oakstop, and was joined by local health leaders, the business community and a Covered California enrollee to highlight the importance of having health coverage.

"As open enrollment draws to a close, Californians still have time to look out for themselves and those they love - but they need to act fast," Altman told the crowd. "Affordable health plans are still out there for many of our enrollees, but with the federal changes it is more important than ever that consumers take advantage of our marketplace and shop."

Despite this year's unique challenges, more than 1.9 million Californians have found a plan that works for them for 2026. That includes nearly 355,000[GN1] people across the Bay Area.

"Having health insurance opens doors of opportunities for all families, by making sure everyone - adults and children - have the care they need to be successful in work, school and in life," said Njeri McGee-Tyner, senior director of Healthcare Access for Alameda Health Consortium. "While costs are increasing, Covered California remains the one place Californians can go to explore their options and find an affordable plan-and financial support is still available."

The state of California has put $190 million toward keeping monthly premiums reasonable for the most vulnerable in the state. While this funding doesn't make up for the $2.5 billion lost with Enhanced Premium Tax Credits sunsetting, nearly 400,000 enrollees are already benefiting. Thousands more across the state are switching to lower-cost plans that help keep their families covered at a price they can afford.

Anyone who needs insurance can use the Shop and Compare Tool at CoveredCA.com to explore plan options in their area and get estimates of coverage and monthly premiums.

Signing Up for Coverage Is Easy

Consumers can learn more about their options by visiting CoveredCA.com, where they can easily find out if they qualify for financial help and see the coverage options in their area. Those interested in learning more about their coverage options can also:

· Get free and confidential assistance over the phone, in a variety of languages, from one of more than 14,000 certified agents and community-based organizations throughout the state that provide free, confidential help in whatever language or dialect consumers prefer.

• Have a certified enroller call them and help them for free.
• Use Covered California's online calculator tool.
• Call Covered California at (800) 300-1506.

About Covered California

Covered California is the state's health insurance marketplace, where Californians can find affordable, high-quality insurance from top insurance companies. Covered California is the only place where individuals who qualify can get financial assistance on a sliding scale to reduce premium costs. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and budget. Depending on their income, some consumers may qualify for the low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal program.

Covered California is an independent part of the state government whose job is to make the health insurance marketplace work for California's consumers. It is overseen by a five-member board appointed by the governor and the Legislature. For more information about Covered California, please visit www.CoveredCA.com.