For Its Size, Tennessee Obamacare Enrollment Stands Out

Federally-trained Certified Application Counselors and Obamacare Navigators helped uninsured Nashvillians sign up for coverage on the first Monday enrollment was open. Credit: Blake Farmer / WPLN

Roughly 18,000 Tennesseans signed up for plans on the new health insurance exchange in February. That’s a drop from the prior month – reflecting a national trend – even as the enrollment deadline is just a few weeks out.

Unlike states with Democratic governors, Tennessee hasn’t thrown its weight behind helping market the exchange. CMS spokesperson Julie Bataille says libraries, hospitals and community health groups are getting the word out.

“We’re working very closely with coalitions of external organizations and partners very committed in making sure people know about and enroll in affordable health care coverage,” she told reporters on a conference call Tuesday.

In Tennessee, more women than men are signing up for plans. And nearly a third of them are over 55.

In all, nearly 78,000 residents signed up for Obamacare insurance as of March 1. That ranks Tennessee 14th in participation. But almost every state with more people enrolled also has a larger population.