FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

AUDIO: MNsure CEO Allison O'Toole talks about shopping and comparing plans

ST. PAUL, Minn.—Starting today, MNsure’s online plan comparison tool will be available with updated 2018 plan information. This tool will allow Minnesotans to shop and compare plans in advance of open enrollment. The tools helps Minnesotans quickly compare plan options, and learn about their health insurance costs and financial assistance. It is available in both English and Spanish, and can be accessed using either a computer or a mobile device.

“This tool is a great way to prepare yourself for open enrollment,” said CEO Allison O’Toole. “We encourage Minnesotans to shop and compare plans to find the plan that’s right for them.”

The tool identifies premiums and deductible amounts, as well as estimated out-of-pocket costs based on health status and expected use of medical services.

“Shopping for health insurance can be complicated,” said O’Toole. “But MNsure can make the process a lot easier with comparison tools like this, as well as free in-person help that is available around the state.”

The tool also estimates whether a consumer is eligible for tax credits to offset premium costs. Individuals earning up to $48,240 annually, or a family of four earning up to $98,400 per year qualify for a tax credit. Approximately 65 percent of current enrollees are receiving tax credits.

Starting October 31, the online plan comparison tool will also introduce two new functions: a drug formulary lookup and quality rating system. The drug formulary lookup will allow consumers to compare different plans in the context of their current or expected prescription drug needs, while the quality rating system will display star ratings for each plan based on consumer satisfaction surveys.

While MNsure encourages consumers to shop early for 2018 coverage, it cautions them to not begin the actual enrollment process for 2018 coverage until November 1, the first day of open enrollment.

Tips for preparing for open enrollment

1. Confirm your username and password
   Forgotten user names or passwords can be recovered by using the Forgot Your Username? or Forgot Your Password? links on the Sign In page.
   
   
2. Update your account information
   It's important for enrollees to update their MNsure account if any of their household information changes. This could include a new address, changes to income or changes to family size. Updating records will ensure that notices and forms are mailed to the correct address, the amount of financial help enrollees qualify for is adjusted, and accurate information about available plans is supplied.
   
   Account updates should be reported to the MNsure Contact Center in advance of the start of open enrollment: 1-855-366-7873 or 651-539-2099.
   
   
3. Schedule an appointment with a MNsure assister
   MNsure has a statewide network of expert assisters (navigators and brokers) who can help you apply and enroll. They can give you help over the phone or in person. After enrolling, your assister can continue to act on your behalf by submitting changes to your account, helping you understand notices, walking you through a renewal, and more. /help/find-assister/index.jspFind free help near you and schedule an appointment on or after November 1, 2017.

The 2018 open enrollment period begins November 1, 2017, and ends on January 14, 2018. Ninety-six percent of Minnesotans have health coverage—the highest percentage in state history. In plan year 2017, more than 500,000 Minnesotans have found health coverage through MNsure. Minnesotans eligible for Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare can enroll year-round. More information can be found at mnsure.org.