Those without insurance in Seattle can apply for free coverage until April 8

In addition to receiving unemployment benefits from the Employment Security Department of Washington State, qualified individuals without insurance can now receive free or low-cost coverage due to the increasing amount of coronavirus cases in Washington.

Those without insurance will be able to enroll in Medicaid through Washington Apple Health during a special enrollment period running until April 8.

“It is apparent that many in our state have been exposed to this virus and that health insurance will be critical to those seeking treatment,” said Exchange Chief Executive Officer Pam MacEwan. “Individuals need to have peace of mind to take care of all health needs, especially if they are at a high risk. Given today’s exceptional circumstances we are enabling those who are uninsured to enroll and gain access to the vital services they may need.”

You may be eligible for Apple Health for Adults coverage if you’re between the ages of 19 and 64, have an annual household income at or below the Medicaid standards, are a US citizen or meet Medicaid immigration requirements, and are not entitled to Medicare.

Additional program requirements and eligibility can be found through the Washington State Healthcare Authority.

Those looking to enroll must contact the Customer Support Center between 7:30 am and 5:30 pm Monday to Friday at 1-855-923-4633; TTY: 1-855-627-9604, or a local certified broker or navigator, request the SEP and select a plan by April 8 for coverage start date beginning April 1, 2020. Language assistance and disability accommodations are provided at no cost.

If you or someone in your household has been through a life change in the past 60 days, or you qualify for free or low-cost Washington Apple Health (Medicaid), you are still able to apply any time of the year.

Washington Healthplanfinder announces a limited-time Special Enrollment Period in response to the growing Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak. Please note that Washington Apple Health enrollment is open year-round. Read the full News Release: https://t.co/rl6AiGLa3E pic.twitter.com/moSAczpSW3

— WA Health Care (@WA_Health_Care) March 10, 2020

• See also: 
  • University of Washington faculty can get coronavirus test at drive-thru clinic
  • Entire country of Italy on lockdown due to coronavirus
  • Those affected by coronavirus in Seattle to receive unemployment benefits