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Getting Health Coverage in Maryland

Losing your job can be stressful, and losing your health insurance can make it even more challenging. Fortunately, Maryland Health Connection provides a safety net, ensuring you and your family can maintain access to essential healthcare services.

What is Maryland Health Connection?

Maryland Health Connection is the state’s official health insurance marketplace, offering individuals and families affordable health coverage options. Whether you’ve lost job-based health insurance or are simply looking for a more cost-effective plan, Maryland Health Connection provides a range of options tailored to your needs.

When to Apply for Coverage

If you have lost your job-based health insurance and have not enrolled in COBRA, you have 60 days to apply for coverage through Maryland Health Connection. This special enrollment period allows you to secure a plan that fits your budget and medical needs without waiting for the annual open enrollment period.

If you qualify for Medicaid, you can apply at any time without waiting for a special enrollment period.

Comprehensive Health Benefits

All plans available through Maryland Health Connection include essential health benefits, such as:

  • Doctor visits
  • Prescription medications
  • Mental health services
  • Preventive care
  • Emergency services
  • Hospitalization

Maryland Health Connection offers health plans from leading providers, including:

  • CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
  • Kaiser Permanente

How to Enroll

In Montgomery County, we offer various avenues for receiving health insurance enrollment assistance:

  • Phone Assistance: Individuals can receive assistance remotely by calling our local call center at 240-777-1815(Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM).
  • Self-Registration for Virtual Assistance: Individuals can join the Montgomery County Maryland Health Connection virtual queue by scanning the QR code below (Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM).
  • Local DHHS In-Person Enrollment Locations:
    • 8818 Georgia Avenue, Silver Spring
    • 12900 Middlebrook Rd, Germantown
    • 1401 Rockville Pike, Rockville
    • 8630 Fenton St, 10th Floor, Silver Spring (All locations operate Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.)

Enrolling in a health plan is simple and convenient. You can:

  • Visit MarylandHealthConnection.gov to compare plans and enroll online.
  • Call 1-855-642-8572 for assistance.
  • Download the free EnrollMHC app to apply and manage your coverage on the go.
  • Find free, in-person assistance near you to help navigate the enrollment process.

Considering COBRA?

If your employer offers COBRA continuation coverage, you can choose to keep your existing health plan. However, COBRA is often more expensive since you are responsible for the full premium amount, including the portion previously paid by your employer. You may find that coverage through Maryland Health Connection is a more affordable alternative. If you enroll in COBRA, you may need to wait for open enrollment or for COBRA benefits to expire before switching to a Maryland Health Connection plan.

Don’t Wait—Act Now!

If you’ve lost health coverage, time is of the essence. You have only 60 days to enroll after losing job-based insurance. Maryland Health Connection ensures you have access to affordable, quality healthcare when you need it most.

Take charge of your health today and explore your options through Maryland Health Connection!