Open enrollment through Connect for Health Colorado, the state's online insurance marketplace, opens today at http://www.connectforhealthco

.com. The marketplace offers individuals, families and small businesses a one-stop shop to compare, pick and purchase health-insurance plans as well as access to upfront financial assistance based on income. Those who purchase plans by Dec. 15 will have coverage beginning Jan. 1.

Pitkin County, in partnership with Eagle and Garfield counties and Mountain Family Health Centers, was one of 58 organizations in Colorado selected to provide in-person assistance to customers of Connect for Health Colorado. The local Health Assistance Network can provide help to anyone looking for health insurance through the online marketplace.

Local health-coverage guides are hosting three walk-in enrollment sessions during November. The first session is scheduled for 2 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Colorado Mountain College in Edwards. The second session is set for 2 to 8 p.m. Wednesday at Colorado Mountain College in Aspen. The third will take place from 2 to 8 p.m. Thursday at Glenwood Central Services in Glenwood Springs.

Health-coverage guides will be available to answer questions, schedule appointments and assist with online applications. All health-coverage guides are bilingual in English and Spanish. To schedule an appointment, visit http://www.eaglecounty.us/HealthAssistance.