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Many people find themselves at a loss when health insurance is discontinued or becomes unaffordable as a result of job loss, relocation, or financial hardship.
The following is a listing of some of the New York State sponsored plans for individuals, families, and businesses. Each has distinct eligibility requirements and costs, so you should check out the websites provided. You may contact the staff at Social Services for further questions and clarification.
Pros:
- An affordable alternative at this time if you do not have health insurance and have been working over the past year.
- Does have an income eligibility requirement.
- Available to small businesses
Cons:
- Has a high deductible and does not cover mental health services.
Source: www.dfs.ny.gov/healthyny/index.html
In March 2010, Congress passed the health care reform law, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. The law created a temporary program until January 2014 that makes coverage available for individuals who have a pre-existing medical condition, have not had insurance for six months, and who are legal US residents.
Pros:
- Affordable insurance without eligibility requirements.
Cons:
- Must be uninsured for 6 months or more and have a chronic medical condition as listed on the website.
Source: www.ghi.com/nybridgeplan/index.html
Family Health Plus is a public health insurance program for adults who are aged 19 to 64 who have income too high to qualify for Medicaid. Family Health Plus is available to single adults, couples without children, and parents who are residents of New York State and are United States citizens or fall under one of many immigration categories. Family Health Plus provides comprehensive coverage, including prevention, primary care, hospitalization, prescriptions and other services. There are minimal co-payments for some Family Health Plus services. Health care is provided through participating managed care plans in your area. Questions regarding Family Health Plus can be directed to the Family Health Plus call center at 1-877-9-FHPLUS (1-877-934-7587), or by e-mailing fhplus@health.state.ny.us.
Source: www.health.ny.gov/health_care/family_health_plus/
New York State has a health insurance plan for kids, called Child Health Plus. Depending on your family's income, your child may be eligible to join either Children's Medicaid or Child Health Plus. Both Children's Medicaid and Child Health Plus are available through dozens of providers throughout the state.
Call this toll-free number: 1-800-698-4KIDS (1-800-698-4543), and ask about Child Health Plus and Children's Medicaid. If you are hearing impaired call the TTY number, 1-877-898-5849.
Source: www.health.ny.gov/health_care/child_health_plus/
If you are enrolled in the NYSHIP Empire Plan and have a question about your coverage, access:
New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP) at www.cs.ny.gov/nyship/nyship.cfm
For links regarding other health plans, please contact your employer's human resource department.