Minnesota health coverage marketplace launches website

ST. PAUL — Minnesota's health insurance exchange has launched a new website to connect with more than 1 million Minnesotans who are expected to use the new marketplace to get coverage.

The exchange is a key part of Minnesota's effort to implement the federal health care overhaul. It will be a central place where individuals, families and small employers sign up for health insurance and receive help paying for it. About 300,000 previously uninsured Minnesotans and 200,000 small-business employees will gain coverage through the exchange.

The new site is designed to provide Minnesotans with up-to-date information about how to take advantage of the exchange. It includes a video and a benefits calculator that will tell individuals if they're eligible for tax credits.

Open enrollment begins Oct. 1. Coverage takes effect Jan. 1.

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Online:

Minnesota health Insurance Exchange: http://www.mn.gov/hix

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.

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