Enrollment on the federal Obamacare exchange has reached 7.1 million, the Obama administration said Wednesday in a weekly report that warned last-minute shoppers to log onto HealthCare.gov before it’s too late.
The “snapshot” report reflected enrollment among new and returning customers through Friday on HealthCare.gov, the federal website that serves 37 states without their own portals.
Customers have until Feb. 15 to sign up, so officials are beefing up efforts to drive uninsured Americans to HealthCare.gov or exchanges run by 13 states and the District of Columbia.
“Time is running out. If you don’t have health coverage, visit HealthCare.gov or contact the Marketplace call center to learn about your options and the financial help that is available,” Health and Human Services Secretary Sylvia Mathews Burwell said.
The administration is well on its way toward exceeding its modest goal of 9.1 million enrollees for the 2015 plan year, although its target is far short of congressional estimates that put anticipated enrollment at 13 million.
Monthly HHS reports wrap in data from the state-run exchanges, and customers tend to flock to the exchanges before key deadlines.
The tax industry is lending a hand, since this is the first year that Americans will have to attest whether they hold health insurance or owe a fine to the IRS.
TurboTax Intuit said Wednesday it is working with Enroll America, a nonprofit that champions Obamacare enrollment, to make sure customers understand their coverage options and can find in-person help before the Feb. 15 deadline.
• Tom Howell Jr. can be reached at thowell@washingtontimes.com.
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