E-newsletter – We’re Open!

While the Federal government is in the midst of a shutdown, state government and our new health care exchange are open for business.

I can’t quite get my head around how a high point and low point for our government can happen on the same day. Yesterday started an arbitrary government shutdown caused by one faction of one caucus in one chamber of Congress and on the same day we have a huge step forward toward providing health insurance for millions of uninsured Americans including tens of thousands of our neighbors right here in Spokane.In addition to the human dignity and quality of life gains from expanding access to health coverage, we will likely lower premiums for those currently with insurance by removing the unintended subsidies we are now paying to cover the costs of emergency room visits and other care currently provided to the uninsured when they get sick or hurt.

Overall, I am optimistic because I know that the shutdown is short-term but the health and economic gains from expanding health coverage will benefit all of us for many years to come. I hope this information helps and I would also like to hear your feedback about the health care exchange, so please contact our office with your inquiries.

If you do not currently have health insurance through your employer, please visit  www.wahealthplanfinder.org to see all your new options. Enrollment is open now with coverages to begin on January 1, 2014.
All plans available through the Health Plan Finder have been reviewed and approved by the state insurance commissioner to ensure that they provide high quality coverage and good value for consumers. Representatives will be on the line weekdays from 7:30am to 8:00pm by dialing 1-855-WAFINDER (1-855-923-4633) or by emailing customersupport@wahbexchange.org.

Thank you to everyone that showed up for our 3rd LD Mobile Office and to Chairs Coffee for hosting us. We had a great turnout and I appreciated all of the questions, ideas and comments. This feedback really helps us to better do our job of representing you.

Please join us at our next mobile office:

Thursday, October 17th East Central neighborhood

South Perry Farmer’s Market

924 S. Perry Ave.

4:00pm to 5:30pm (drop-in anytime)