NEVADA (KTNV) — The Silver State Health Insurance Exchange is warning consumers to be extra mindful of insurance-related scams due to an increase in fraudulent activity involving sales of COVID-19 specific health coverage.
“As is the case in many times of crisis, we are beginning to see a wide array of fraudulent actors preying on the vulnerable,” said Heather Korbulic, executive director of the Silver State Health Insurance Exchange. “We can't emphasize enough how important it is to safeguard yourself with health insurance, not just any insurance, comprehensive insurance such as the plans offered through Nevada Health Link.
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In response to Gov. Sisolak’s Emergency Declaration, the Exchange announced a limited-time Exceptional Circumstance Special Enrollment Period (SEP) for qualified Nevadans who missed the Open Enrollment Period (OEP) to secure health insurance for 2020.
The SEP runs through April 15, 2020 and allows eligible individuals to enroll in a qualified health plan through Nevada Health Link to receive coverage effective May 1, 2020 if they enroll April 2 – April 15. Learn more about the current SEP here.
The fraudulent actors, many operating from out of state, are actively trying to sell low-cost “coronavirus” or “COVID-19” health coverage, according to the exchange.
Representatives also shared important items to remember:
-Nevada Health Link insurance plans will cover COVID-19 related care. You do NOT need to purchase additional health insurance. If you have any questions regarding your plan purchased through Nevada Health Link, please call 1-800-547-2927.
-This is also true for Off-Exchange insurance plans that are ACA-compliant for which you do NOT need additional health insurance coverage.
-If you have witnessed or know someone who is telling people to purchase extra health insurance coverage for COVID-19, please file a complaintwith the Nevada Division of Insurance.
-Remember to always verify licensure of persons or companies trying to sell you insurance with the Division of Insurance. Verify a license on the Division’s website.
-Additionally, there is no cost for medical services related to testing for COVID-19. More health insurance information available here.
Anyone seeking a special enrollment are encouraged to contact the customer assistance call center between 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-800-547-2927.
