How Do I Get an Individual Health Insurance Plan?

How Do I Get an Individual Health Insurance Plan?

How Do I Get an Individual Health Insurance Plan?
1 minute read time

There are two times when you can get health insurance — during open enrollment and special enrollment. 

Open enrollment starts on Nov. 1 each year and runs for a limited time. This is when anyone can sign up for an individual and family plan.

Outside of open enrollment, you may be able to sign up under special enrollment. To obtain health insurance during special enrollment, you must have a qualifying "life event" within 60 days. Examples include losing your job, moving to a new area, getting married or adding a child to your family

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico offers tools to help you find a plan that's right for you. Use the Provider Finder® and our website to see your choices. They make choosing a health insurance plan simpler. Visit bcbsnm.com to learn about the BCBSNM family and individual health insurance plans available.

Under Find Care on our website, you can look for in-network doctors who are with the plan you're researching. If you already have a doctor you want to stay with, use the tool to see if your current doctor or medical group is in-network for the plan you’re considering.

A premium tax credit based on things like your income and family size is offered by the government. If you're eligible, it can help you pay less on your monthly bill. You can use our website to learn if you qualify and apply your savings.

If you take any prescription drugs, check the drug list to see if and how the plan covers your medications.

After you choose a plan that fits your budget, medical and prescription drug needs, make sure to track your application status.