More than 33,000 people in Wyoming have completed the work to sign-up for new health insurance plans or renew policies before the Federal Health Insurance Marketplace open enrollment period ends Jan. 15. Help is available for those who similarly seek coverage or savings.

As a grant-funded nonprofit, Enroll Wyoming has guided many people through the free process to identify needs and provide precise information so individuals and families can find health insurance plans that match their personal requirements. People can partner with a Navigator to escort them through the Health Insurance Marketplace or explore on their own at www.healthcare.gov. Enroll Wyoming staff encourages people to investigate, saying they may qualify for savings.

“Many people haven’t reached out to Navigators because they don’t realize that income guidelines have changed,” Navigator Nancy Drummond said.

She said one family in need of health insurance filled out the application and learned they could get coverage with no premiums and low deductibles.

“We are available to everybody at no cost,” said Navigator Erik Saulness, who added the consumers he meets with generally express surprise and relief that Enroll Wyoming does not charge for services. Since the organization is supported by a grant, staff don’t have sales goals or incentives. They say they provide impartial, individually tailored information for people to make their own choices.

Some consumers have been empowered to take more proactive steps to improve their health. Navigator Val Walsh-Haines remembered a healthy farmer from Powell who rarely sees a doctor but wanted to know more about preventative care.

“I was able to assist him with finding a policy that was affordable and gave him great peace of mind. It is so rewarding to offer this service to Wyoming residents!” she said.

The Marketplace can also provide more options to address existing conditions. Navigator Cynthia Nunley recalls how the very first person enrolled through the grant needed a life-saving operation and qualified for a health insurance plan with cost-sharing reductions. After the surgery, her doctor said that, without the procedure, she would have died in months.

Health insurance can also open the door to other opportunities. Navigator Angela Thatcher told of a person who enrolled in health coverage for the first time. She said this was especially important as they are currently trying to get guardianship of a child from a broken home and currently in the foster care system. Having health insurance brought client one step closer to obtaining that guardianship.

To inquire how Enroll Wyoming can assist your household, call 211 and ask for a health insurance Navigator. In-person, phone and Zoom consultations are available.

This project is supported by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). It’s part of a financial assistance award totaling $1.25 million, with 100% of the sum funded by CMS/HHS.