Many Idahoans Have Signed Up for Insurance

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Sign-ups in Idaho's insurance exchange accelerated in January, rising to 32,899 as more people sought health care coverage as the March 31 enrollment deadline approaches. The federal government reported yesterday Your Health Idaho enrollment amounted to the second-highest per capita in the country, with only Vermont's numbers topping those of the Gem State. Exchange spokeswoman Jody Olson said the figures are positive, but urged residents currently without insurance to seek coverage required under President Barack Obama's 2010 health care overhaul. Otherwise, people risk a fine, if they don't sign up by March's end. Exchanges, in Idaho and elsewhere, are a key part of President Obama's plan to insure more people, allowing individuals and small businesses to shop for federally subsidized policies for themselves, family and their employees via the Internet.