Open enrollment season is here for Hoosiers weighing their health insurance options.

Indiana’s community health centers can help residents compare state marketplace plans or explore Medicare plans.

Jenny Walden, outreach and enrollment director for the Indiana Primary Health Care Association, said while help is available, residents should be cautious of open enrollment scams.

“Verifying who they’re talking to is really important,” Walden stressed. “There’s a lot of lookalikes out there. If you want to make sure that you are enrolling in, a marketplace plan. You would want to visit the website, HealthCare.gov.”

Hoosiers should always use the official site to confirm they are signing up for legitimate coverage. Medicare enrollment began Oct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7, and Affordable Care Act marketplace sign-ups open Nov. 1 and continue through Jan. 15. Some enhanced premium tax credits could expire at the end of the year, which could raise premiums if Congress does not act.

Walden added anyone who misses the sign-up window or loses coverage can still turn to their local health center for affordable care.

“If you do find yourself uninsured, you can always utilize a Community Health Center because they will see you regardless of your ability to pay,” Walden pointed out.

Dr. Rhonda Randall, chief medical officer and executive vice president of UnitedHealthcare Employer and Individual, said it is the perfect time to get organized and compare options.

“The number one piece of advice I give people is to start early, so that you have enough time to do that,” Randall emphasized. “This is an important decision for your health. It’s also an important decision for your financial health.”

She added taking the time now helps you understand up-front and out-of-pocket costs and learn about new plan offerings which could save money later.