In another sign that the health insurance exchanges are far from being problem-free, there are some states where not a single individual has enrolled for coverage.
The Associated Press recently reported that at Oregon's health marketplace – Cover Oregon – no one has signed up for a health plan nearly one-and-a-half months after the enrollment period began.
Amy Fauver, chief communications officer for the state-based exchange, indicated the predictions about the marketplace being a smashing success right off the bat proved to be short-lived.
"We stuck to the vision, and we're experiencing now the bumps that go along with having a grand vision that doesn't work out exactly the way you hope it will," said Fauver.
However, she added that she has no doubt things will start to run smoothly once all the kinks have had time to be worked out of the system.
Gov. Deval Patrick of Massachusetts told Fox News recently that the Bay State's marketplace – the Massachusetts Health Connector – suffered similar problems when it was first launched several years ago. However, the problems were eventually fixed and the state now boasts one of the highest insured rates in the country, including among individuals who have employee benefits.
For its part, Cover Oregon officials say the exchange has proven to be popular with residents living in the Beaver State. As of Oct. 31 – the latest date for which data is available – more than 17,000 people applied for a health insurance plan; Oregonians have another four months to sign up.
"We encourage Oregonians to get started now with an electronic or paper application," said Howard King, executive director of Cover Oregon. "Even with our current online system challenges, we will make sure that no one gets left behind."
