January 6, 2021

Maryland Health Benefit Exchange to Have New Special Enrollment Period

The Maryland Health Benefit Exchange will have a new special enrollment period in which uninsured Maryland residents have the opportunity to enroll in health coverage due to the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis and the recent rise in the positivity rate throughout the state. The enrollment period begins immediately and will run until March 15.

Health coverage through the Maryland Health Connection, including private health plans and Medicaid, covers costs for COVID-19 tests at doctor’s offices, urgent care centers and emergency rooms.

Individuals can enroll now through Monday, March 15. Coverage dates will vary based on when a Marylander enrolls in a plan:
  • Enroll now–Jan. 15: Coverage starts Jan. 1.
  • Enroll Jan. 16–Feb. 15: Coverage starts Feb. 1.
  • Enroll Feb. 16–March 15: Coverage starts March 1.
The last COVID-19 special enrollment period ran from the onset of the pandemic in March through Dec.15, making it one of the longest in the country. Nearly 107,000 Marylanders enrolled in 2020 health coverage through the special enrollment.

Marylanders can apply for coverage at marylandhealthconnection.gov.