Thousands of Maryland Health Connection Customers Waiting for Insurance Coverage

State health exchange working to resolve delays in CareFirst plan enrollments

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

WBAL-TV 11 News Investigates has learned that a few thousand customers who signed up for health insurance through the Maryland state health exchange are still waiting for their coverage to begin, despite the plans being supposed to start on January 1. The Maryland Health Connection confirms the problem is impacting about 4,000 customers who enrolled in CareFirst insurance plans.

Why it matters

Timely access to health insurance coverage is critical for consumers, especially those who may need immediate medical care. Delays in plan activation can leave people vulnerable and without the protection they signed up and paid for through the state exchange.

The details

Officials with the Maryland Health Connection said they are working collaboratively with CareFirst to review and resolve the delayed cases as quickly as possible. Impacted customers who need immediate help and might need their requests escalated can call a dedicated phone number to get assistance.

  • Coverage was supposed to start on January 1, 2026.
  • The issue is currently impacting about 4,000 customers who signed up through the state exchange.

The players

Maryland Health Connection

The state-based health insurance marketplace and exchange for the state of Maryland.

CareFirst

A major health insurance provider that offers plans through the Maryland Health Connection.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Maryland Health Connection and CareFirst are working to resolve the delayed coverage cases, and impacted customers can call a dedicated phone number to get their issues escalated and addressed more quickly.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the importance of timely and reliable health insurance enrollment, especially through state-based exchanges, to ensure consumers have the coverage they need when they need it. Prompt resolution of these delays is critical to protect the health and financial security of Maryland residents.