OPEN ENROLLMENT DEADLINE HELP IN BAKO SUNDAY

Clinica Sierra Vista and Mercy Hospital Downtown in Bakersfield are helping those eligible to enroll in Covered California during this Sunday’s deadline.

Certified counselors will be on hand January 31st to sign people up in a plan in order to avoid IRS fines, which can reach $2500 for those without health insurance.

The clinics recommend anyone who wants to enroll bring dates of birth, proof of income, proof of identification, and Social Security numbers for all family members; proof of Kern County residency (like a utility bill); a driver’s license; and a Legal Resident Card or Certificate of Naturalized Citizenship if necessary.

Clinica Sierra Vista will be open 8a.m.-5p.m. It’s located at 1400 S. Union Ave., Bakersfield, CA 93307.

Mercy Hospital in downtown Bakersfield will be open from 10a.m.-6p.m. It’s located at 1600 D St., Bakersfield, CA 93301.

Kelli Forsch