Deadline Approaches for MNsure Enrollment

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) _ Minnesota residents who buy health insurance on the individual market have until Wednesday to enroll in the state-run health care exchange if they want to be covered by Jan. 1.

Reports say MNsure will have extended hours at its call center and 24-hour online availability as the deadline approaches. Residents have until Jan. 14 to pick a plan, but coverage won't begin until Feb. 1.

MNsure CEO Allison O'Toole says the state set up a 10-week enrollment window after consulting with providers and health care advocates. The federal health care exchange program was only open for six weeks.

MNsure officials believe the program will see about a 5 percent increase in customers this year.

The program allows Minnesota residents to get insurance on the individual market rather than through their employer.