Health officials worry about Jan. coverage gaps

Members of Colorado’s health exchange board are concerned people will face a January gap in coverage if they don’t find out in time whether they’re eligible for Medicaid or other subsidies before their policies expire.

The Denver Post reports Monday that board member Steve ErkenBrack suggested officials and insurers allow late-coming consumers to enroll in policies with an “escrow” account that lets them go back to Medicaid later if they find out they qualify for it.

Health Care Policy and Financing Director Sue Birch says most people are told instantly if they’re denied for Medicaid so they can start shopping for private insurance through the exchange’s marketplace.

But ErkenBrack and others worry many won’t know their status immediately and will face coverage gaps starting Jan. 1.