All Rhode Islanders have less than two weeks to enroll in coverage for 2018

PROVIDENCE, RI (December 19, 2017) – HealthSource RI, Rhode Island’s health insurance marketplace, is partnering with Lyft, the ride sharing company, to encourage drivers in the state to consider their health care options as open enrollment comes to a close.

The partnership will involve outreach to Lyft’s drivers through distribution of educational materials, an email campaign to drivers and promotion through online driver portals.

Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo says the arrangement will help the state reach even more residents who need health coverage.

“We’ve made great strides over the past few years to get 96 percent of Rhode Islanders the health coverage they need – but there’s still more work to be done,” she said. “Many self-employed Rhode Islanders like Lyft drivers need access to affordable health care. This partnership will help these hard-working individuals benefit from HealthSource RI’s high-quality, affordable health plans. I encourage anyone who still needs coverage in 2018 to enroll as soon as possible.”

Lyft drivers, and any other Rhode islanders who need coverage in 2018, need to act fast to enroll in coverage, or they’ll miss the deadline. HealthSource RI’s open enrollment period began on November 1^st. Rhode Islanders must pick and pay for a plan by December 23^rd to guarantee they have health insurance coverage on January 1.

”This is an important time for those evaluating their health care needs in the coming year, and we want to make sure drivers are aware of the assistance available to them through HealthSource RI. We’re proud to help spread the word to drivers, so they can plan for their future.” said Lyft’s General Manager for Rhode Island Tyler George.

Due to changes in cost sharing reduction payments to insurers, some customers will see significant changes to their health coverage options. This year more than ever, it’s important for Rhode Islanders to understand their health coverage options and actively shop during Open Enrollment. The plan that may have been the best fit in previous years may not be the right option for 2018.

“Even customers who are happy with the health insurance plan they had in 2017 should take a second look at their options for next year,” says HealthSource RI director Zachary Sherman. “In some cases, they might be able to find a better plan at a lower price.”

HealthSource RI launched a new Savings Tool to make it easier for Rhode Islanders to understand their health coverage options. This quick quote tool helps customers consider their total health needs, from premium price and financial assistance to maximum out-of-pocket cost and provider networks.  (The Savings Tool is located at: www.healthsourceri.wpengine.com/calculator )

There are many other ways to get help choosing a plan for 2018. Rhode Islanders can enroll or renew their coverage online at HealthSourceRI.com, or call the Contact Center at 1-855-840-4774. In order to help more customers, HealthSource RI is taking calls on Saturday mornings from 9 am to noon in addition to its regular weekday hours (Monday-Friday, 8 am- 7 pm) throughout Open Enrollment.

Rhode Islanders who prefer to receive in-person assistance can call 1-844-602-3468 to schedule an appointment at the Walk-In Center in East Providence, or call 2-1-1 to find a Navigator in their community. HealthSource RI is also holding enrollment assistance events in communities across Rhode Island. The full schedule is available on HealthSourceRI.com.

Small employers who purchase coverage through HealthSource RI for Employers may enroll in health insurance coverage throughout the year at their regular renewal date.

About HealthSource RI:
HealthSource RI was created because buying health insurance is complicated. It’s HealthSource RI’s job to help Rhode Islanders cut through the confusion and choose the best, most affordable health insurance plan possible. Since 2013, HealthSource RI has decreased the uninsured rate by more than two thirds, and today, 96 percent of Rhode Islanders have health coverage. For more information, visit www. HealthSourceRI.com, follow us on Twitter @HealthSourceRI, and like us on Facebook at fb.com/ HealthSourceRI.

About Lyft:
Lyft was founded in June 2012 by Logan Green and John Zimmer to improve people’s lives with the world’s best transportation. Lyft is the fastest growing rideshare company in the U.S. and is available to 95 percent of the US population. Lyft is preferred by drivers and passengers for its safe and friendly experience, and its commitment to effecting positive change for the future of our cities.