Consumer Alert - November 19, 2018
CONSUMER ALERTOf Unlicensed ‘Health Plans’ Solicited During Open Enrollment
Insurance Commissioner Katharine L. Wade reminds consumers that open enrollment for individual health insurance, which runs until December 15, is an opportunity for consumers to shop around for a health plan that best suits their needs and budgets.
But it is also a time of increased advertising and marketing for products that may not be health insurance, or are not approved or licensed in the state and may not have the required consumer protections. These products are being marketed on TV, the Internet and through social media and telemarketers.
“Marketing for these so-called ‘health plans is everywhere,” Commissioner Wade said. “I’ve even received phone calls to purchase these products and when I’ve asked for more information and if they are licensed in the state of Connecticut, the callers hang up.
“It is extremely important to verify that you are purchasing a plan that has consumer protections required by Connecticut law and is marketed by a licensed insurance carrier and/or licensed broker,” Commissioner Wade said. “Before you give any information, you should verify who the company or broker is and if they licensed in the state.”
The Commissioner encourages anyone with questions, to contact the Connecticut Insurance Department by:
- Email: insurance@ct.gov
- Phone: 860-297-3900
- Web site: Insurance Department Website
Additional resources:
- List of licensed carriers selling ACA-compliant plans in Connecticut.
- Access Health CT - the state health insurance exchange
- Find a licensed broker/agent