Why open enrollment matters

WEST VIRGINIA (WVNS) -- Health insurance open enrollment gives people a chance to review their coverage and compare available plans.

Tiffany Coulter, an agent with United Healthcare, said the enrollment window is important because it lets consumers explore their choices.

For some, the goal is to find broader coverage. For others, saving money may be the priority.

Coulter said she works with people to sort through different plans and identify the one that best suits their needs.

She said there are only a limited number of chances during the year to make these kinds of changes, and plans can shift from year to year, including Medicare options. Because of that, she said it is a good time to review your current coverage, check for updates, or switch to another plan if needed.

Coulter also said it is wise to shop around during open enrollment rather than automatically choosing the first company you see.

She noted that other plans may offer better support for an individual or an entire family.

The open enrollment period runs through mid-January, but people must sign up by mid-December if they want coverage to start at the beginning of the new year.

Those who enroll after that deadline and before the final cutoff will have coverage begin the following month.