State Officials Hope For Smoother Health Website Launch

Massachusetts residents hoping to find health insurance can begin searching the state's revamped health care website.

The new system was open for business on Saturday, the start of the new open enrollment period, allowing people who need coverage to sign up for insurance plans.

Consumers will be able to use the website to browse health plans anonymously, create a new account, complete an application online, and find out what program they qualify for.

They will also be able to compare plans, including premiums, co-pays and benefits.

People who meet income eligibility requirements can get help paying for their coverage through the Health Connector or free coverage through MassHealth.

Gov. Deval Patrick says he's cautiously optimistic about the launch, saying officials have been "testing and retesting" the website.