By, Dr. Monica Soni
The opportunity to secure quality, affordable health coverage through Covered California is coming to a close, with open enrollment ending Jan. 31, 2025. For Black and African American Californians, this is the moment to take charge of your health and access the care you deserve. Whether renewing your plan or signing up for the first time, Covered California offers affordable options that meet the needs of individuals, families and communities.
As of Jan. 11, more than 1.9 million Californians have already enrolled in health plans through Covered California, marking a record-high enrollment. This includes 253,725 new enrollees for 2025, reflecting a 13 percent increase compared to the same time last year. Additionally, nearly 1.65 million Californians have renewed their coverage, a 9 percent rise from the previous year. These numbers demonstrate the growing awareness and importance of maintaining health insurance.
For Black Californians, the progress is notable, as heading into open enrollment nearly 37,000 were enrolled in Covered California coverage. Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, enrollment among Black residents has increased by over 28 percent, thanks in part to enhanced federal subsidies from the Inflation Reduction Act and California’s cost-sharing reduction program. These initiatives have made health care coverage more affordable and accessible than ever before.
If you’re worried about cost, consider this: nearly 600,000 uninsured Californians are eligible for financial assistance to help pay for Covered California plans, with most qualifying for brand-name coverage at $10 or less per month. Furthermore, nearly one in four enrollees will have a $0 monthly premium in 2025, an increase from 20 percent this year. Over 175,000 new enrollees have already benefited from California’s cost-sharing reduction program, which provides richer benefits and lowers out-of-pocket costs.
Despite these gains, prior to open enrollment, nearly 1.3 million Californians remained uninsured but eligible for Medi-Cal or Covered California coverage. Black Californians are encouraged to explore their options, get educated on available financial assistance and enroll in a plan that fits their needs. During this year’s Open Enrollment, Covered California’s “Let’s Talk Health” initiative aimed to improve health literacy and simplify the often-confusing aspects of health insurance, ensuring every Californian feels empowered to make informed decisions about their care.
It’s important to note that health insurance is not just about emergencies—it’s a gateway to preventive care, regular checkups, mental health support and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. Accessing coverage now can save you from financial stress and ensure you and your loved ones receive the care you need when it matters most.
The numbers tell a compelling story: nearly 68,000 new enrollees this year identified as Latino, over 45,000 as Asian American and over 61,000 as White. Meanwhile, nearly 8,000 Black Californians have enrolled so far. We have more work to do to build on this progress to ensure no one is left behind.
Following the impact of the Eaton and Palisades Fires, which destroyed over 12,000 homes and displaced thousands, Governor Newsom declared a State of Emergency in Los Angeles and Ventura counties on Jan. 7. Individuals, enrollees, or their dependents affected by the fires are eligible for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP) beyond the Jan. 31 deadline. Residents in these counties have 60 days from the declaration date to enroll in health coverage through Covered California, extending the deadline to March 8.
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Visit CoveredCA.com or call today to explore your options and sign up for coverage by Jan. 31. Together, we can create a healthier future for all Californians. The time is now.
