Covered California Enrollment Numbers Still Lower Than Expected
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - More people are signing up for the new affordable care act, but it's still not enough, say those behind the program.
Victor Kaslye. 19, is talking about the need get to health insurance. This comes as a big blow to most people when they turn 18, and cut off from mom and dads.
"I know a lot of young people are thinking about it and talking about it," said Victor.
But not that many young people are paying for Covered California. Only 22 percent of people signing up are in the 18 to 34 age group.
Community leaders put on a health fair to encourage more sign-ups.
"I think the biggest challenge is to actually make people aware to have to pay attention to the fact that this is something they need to sign up for," said state assemblyman Roger Dickinson.
Getting young people like victor is the main goal for Obamacare.
"Even though at that age we think were indestructible we don't have health probs if something comes along that is serious you want health coverage," said Roger.
Nearly 120,000 people enrolled in Covered California in November, way up from the nearly 31,000 in October. California is ahead of the game compared to other states.
The top three coverage plans people are picking include Anthem Blue Cross, Blue Shield of California and Kaiser.
Victor's just glad he can now get a checkup.
"If this wasn't available. I probably wouldn't be doing anything about health insurance," said Victor.
The bigger age group who are signed up for Covered California are between 55 and 64, making up 35 percent of enrollees.
