Health insurance open enrollment now open

As the open enrollment period kicks off, many in Eagle County find themselves reviewing health insurance options. Whether you're an individual navigating the complexities on your own, a business owner considering plans for your team, or a family balancing coverage with budget constraints, understanding what's available—and how to get the best fit—is essential.

Health insurance isn’t just about protection; it’s about resilience. In Eagle County, we have a higher cost of living than many other regions, which trickles into healthcare costs. Health insurance premiums and out-of-pocket costs are often higher for residents in high-cost-of-living mountain communities like ours. Many local families, especially those who don’t qualify for subsidies, face financial strain to maintain quality coverage.

Coloradans enrolling in individual health insurance plans in 2025 will see an average increase of 5.6% across the state versus a far smaller increase of 3.4% in Eagle County. Fortunately, many insurance companies have expanded their coverage for behavioral health services, so consider comparing plans to determine the most applicable coverage to meet your needs.

The open enrollment period for health insurance in Colorado runs from November 1 through January 15. However, if you want coverage that starts by January 1, the deadline to apply is December 15. Missing these dates means you may have to wait until the next open enrollment period or experience a qualifying life event to secure coverage. Mark your calendar and don’t procrastinate, as the enrollment window is fixed—and with our busy schedules, it’s easy to let this deadline sneak by.

As usual, there are updates in plan offerings, rates, and even new providers entering the marketplace. One significant point for 2024 is an expanded range of plans available through Connect for Health Colorado, Colorado's health insurance exchange. The availability of a broader network might mean more options at competitive rates, which is especially important for small business owners and freelancers—a big part of our workforce in this resort-based economy. There are significant differences between Medicare and Medicare Advantage, which can have a huge impact on your ability to access care.

For those of us who feel daunted by the jargon of “premium tax credits” and “deductibles,” resources exist to make sense of it all. Local brokers, like those available through the Vail Valley Partnership, can provide personalized advice at no additional cost. Certified insurance brokers and local enrollment centers know the specifics of Eagle County’s insurance landscape and can answer questions or walk you through the enrollment process step-by-step.

Community organizations like Mountain Family Health Centers also offer resources to assist low- to moderate-income families in applying for Medicaid or other financial aid programs, and they can connect you with bilingual assistance if needed.

The One Valley Healthcare Program, offered by Vail Valley Partnership, is a cost-effective healthcare solution designed for businesses, individuals, and families in Eagle County. This program provides access to affordable healthcare options through a medical cost-sharing model, which includes primary care, preventive services, and a network of providers without the high costs typically associated with traditional insurance.

My advice? Don’t go it alone. Consult experts, compare plans and research options, and give yourself the best start for the 2025 year by selecting a health plan that supports your needs and budget. We are fortunate to have a truly modern mountain healthcare system here in Eagle County with many services that are not commonly available in a community of our size. It is important to understand what providers locally are considered in-network when determining the right plan for your family.

Chris Romer is president & CEO of Vail Valley Partnership, the regional chamber of commerce. Learn more at VailValleyPartnership.com