The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Individuals and families looking for health insurance this fall have 15 insurers and 230 health plans to choose from starting Saturday, Nov. 15.

According to a news release from the Washington State Office Insurance Commissioner's Office, the average approved rate change was 1.5 percent. Originally, the insurers requested an average 8.3 percent increase, but it was lowered after a review by the commissioner's office.

“The number of choices consumers have this year is evidence that Washington state’s individual market is thriving under health care reform,” Insurance Commissioner Mike Kreidler said in the release. “We have more health plans than ever and the lowest rate average rate change in seven years.”

Earlier this year, the office approved 90 health plans from 10 insurers for sale in Washington’s Exchange, Wahealthplanfinder (www.wahealthplanfinder.org). Another 140 health plans were recently approved from 10 insurers for sale in the individual market outside of the Exchange.

“Consumers should shop around, even if they have coverage today,” Kreidler said. “With this many new plans, you could find a better deal than last year. But remember: tax credits or subsidies are only available for health plans purchased through, the Exchange, Wahealthplanfinder (www.wahealthplanfinder.org).”

Consumers who are re-enrolling should pay close attention to their tax credit amount for 2015 as well as their premium when selecting a plan. Tax credits are based on the lowest cost silver plan and, this year, the lowest cost silver plan will be cheaper in many counties, resulting in a lower tax credit for some people.