Increase seen in Illinois health plans for 2015
A spokesman says United Healthcare has filed an application to sell policies on the Illinois insurance marketplace that's a cornerstone of the nation's health care law.
United Healthcare spokesman Kevin Shermach said Thursday it's "a first step" that will help company officials make a final decision about participating. United Healthcare was absent from the marketplace this year.
Earlier Thursday, the Illinois Department of Insurance said 10 insurance carriers submitted 504 health plans for approval to be sold on the marketplace for coverage in 2015.
That's an increase compared to last year when eight insurance carriers offered 165 plans.
The department didn't release the names of the companies. Prices also haven't been announced. The department is reviewing the applications. Consumers will be able to start shopping for health plans Nov. 15.