The goal of WAHA’s Small Business Health Insurance Connection (SBHIC, a program in partnership with the Bellingham Whatcom Economic Development Council, Bellingham/Whatcom Chamber of Commerce and Western Washington University’s Center for Economic Vitality) is to connect employees of small businesses to health insurance and health care services. These services are free and confidential.
Small businesses make up a significant employment sector in Whatcom County, but the high cost of health insurance makes it hard for many small businesses to provide this benefit to their employees. According to the WA State Office of the Insurance Commissioner, an estimated 60% of small business employees statewide do not have health insurance through their jobs.
Several new resources are available specifically to assist small businesses with providing health insurance for their employees. About 90% of Whatcom County’s small businesses are of eligible size to take advantage of these programs.
Small Business Health Care Tax Credit
Health Insurance Partnership (closed to new enrollees effective June 13, 2011)
Resources for employees or their family members who do not have health insurance
Apple Health for Kids
Comprehensive coverage (medical, dental, vision and mental health) for kids 18 and younger in families with gross monthly incomes below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. Premiums are $0-$30 per child per month.
Washington Health Program
The same coverage as the Basic Health Plan. While it is more expensive because it is not state-subsidized, Washington Health Program provides good coverage for a cost that is generally less than commercial health insurance plans. Like commercial insurance, a standard health questionnaire is required. There are no income criteria for Washington Health Program.
Commercial insurance plans
There are a variety of commercial insurance products available to Whatcom County residents who pass the Washington State health screening.
Other options for getting access to health care services in Whatcom County
- Sliding fee scale clinics – SeaMar, Interfaith, Planned Parenthood
- Whatcom Project Access - donated specialty medical care
- Behavioral Health Access Program
- Breast, Cervical and Colon Health Program
- Prescription Assistance Program
- Discount and Charity Care Programs
Contact WAHA’s Access Counselors by email or call (360) 788-6594 to find out more about these community options.