Californians shopping for insurance policies through the state's online marketplace can now compare plans based on customer quality ratings as well as cost. Covered California assigned star ratings to the health plans based on member survey responses. The surveys were taken before the insurance marketplace opened, so they only compare plans that had a track record beforehand. The ratings cover such topics as access to medical appointments, customer service and the quality of medical care. Consumers can purchase individual policies through the exchange and many are eligible for financial help paying their premiums. For coverage this year, they have until March 31 to enroll.
