WV Healthy Start Navigator Project no longer able to assist local consumers

Due to a decrease in federal funding, the West Virginia Healthy Start Navigator Project will no longer be available to assist consumers with health insurance needs. The change goes into effect on Thurs., Sept. 13.

 

The Healthy Start program provides health coverage outreach, education and enrollment assistance to West Virginians looking to enroll in the Health Insurance Marketplace, Medicaid or WV CHIP. The West Virginia HealthyStart/Helping Appalachian Parents and Infants (HAPI) Project is funded separately and remains in operation.

 

Healthy Start Navigator offices in Wheeling, Martinsburg, Morgantown and Elkins will close as part of the funding decrease. Consumers may receive Medicaid and CHIP assistance by contacting their county Department of Health and Human Resources office.

 

Help with marketplace insurance is available through the federal help line at 1-800-318-2596. Consumers can also access existing or create new accounts at www.healthcare.gov, or by contacting a local Certified Application Counselors located within a health clinic or hospital.

 

For more information, contact Penny Womeldorff,  Healthy Appalachian Parents and Infants program director, at 304-293-1560.