LAS VEGAS (KTNV) — The deadline to buy insurance through Nevada's public exchanges Nevada Health Link is Jan. 15 at 11:59 p.m., and officials within the exchange are urging people to sign up for insurance during the coronavirus pandemic.
Communications Officer Janel Davis said Nevada Health Link plans are the only ones available with federal subsidies to help offset monthly premium costs.
Davis says plans cover coronavirus testing, treatment, vaccinations and no one would need to buy supplemental insurance plans to be covered for those items.
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Davis warned against what she called fraudulent calls going out to people claiming to sell supplemental insurance plans for coronavirus expenses.
For people concerned they can't afford insurance plans, Davis said many should consider whether they could afford not to be insured.
"The truth is if you were to go to the hospital and not have health insurance, that debt alone would put you into bankruptcy or financial ruin," Davis said. "So, insurance is designed to protect you and your family from financial ruin if a medical emergency were to occur."
Davis says there are 50 health plans, 27 dental plans and several vision plans available through the exchange and customers don't need to buy health insurance to sign up for a dental or vision plan.
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She said phone centers have extended hours through the deadline to ensure anyone seeking help can reach a representative.
Consultations with certified insurance assistants are free.
Applicants can sign up for health plans online by clicking here.