HealthSource extends hours as enrollment deadline approaches

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) - HealthSource RI is staying open for longer as the deadline for enrolling in health coverage creeps closer.

Rhode Island’s health care exchange is extending both its walk-in and call center hours as the Dec. 31 open enrollment deadline approaches. HealthSource RI Director Zachary Sherman tells WPRI-TV that enrollment is up this year, with 31,700 enrollees so far.

Sherman says 96 percent of Rhode Island residents currently have health coverage. He also says the exchange is assessing the impact of the recently approved Republican tax plan that will end fines for people who are uninsured.

Anyone who needs health insurance can enroll online anytime, but the walk-in center will be open until 8 p.m. through Friday.