DENVER – Coloradans are signing up for insurance through the state’s health care exchange in greater numbers than they were at this time last year.

The Denver Post reports that nearly 44,000 people selected a plan through Connect for Health Colorado through November. The corresponding figure last year was just more than 34,000.

Enrollment began on Nov. 1 and runs through Jan. 12. Those wanting insurance starting Jan. 1 must sign up by Dec. 15.

State regulators approved an average premium hike of 27 percent next year for those buying their own insurance. The increases don’t take into account federal tax credits which nearly two-thirds of those who buy insurance through the state’s exchange are eligible to receive.

This year, about 8 percent of state residents bought their own insurance.