SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Covered California™ corrected data today reported for individuals who enrolled in October with and without a subsidy.
The corrected numbers are 25,978 individuals who enrolled with a subsidy and 4,852 individuals who enrolled without a subsidy during October 2013. In its Wednesday, Nov. 13, press release, Covered California inadvertently transposed the totals in these two categories. Other enrollment totals, including the total of 30,830 enrollees for October, were reported correctly.
The error was discovered after comparing similar numbers reported on Dec. 12 for the combined months of October and November. The error in the October data was originally thought to be duplications and changes in eligibility; however, research in the days following showed that the totals reported had been transposed. The totals reported on Dec. 12 remain accurate.
“It was an unfortunate error, and we apologize for any confusion,” said Covered California Communications Director Oscar Hidalgo. “We remain committed to reporting accurate data to provide the public and our partners a clear picture of the overall demand for Covered California health plans.”
About Covered California
Covered California is the state’s marketplace for the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. Covered California, in partnership with the California Department of Health Care Services, was charged with creating a new health insurance marketplace in which individuals and small businesses can get access to affordable health insurance plans. With coverage starting in 2014, Covered California helps individuals determine whether they are eligible for premium assistance that is available on a sliding-scale basis to reduce insurance costs or whether they are eligible for low-cost or no-cost Medi-Cal. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and budget. Small businesses can purchase competitively priced health insurance plans and offer their employees the ability to choose from an array of plans and may qualify for federal tax credits.
Covered California is an independent part of the state government whose job is to make the new market work for California’s consumers. It is overseen by a five-member board appointed by the Governor and the Legislature. For more information on Covered California, please visit www.CoveredCA.com.
