Important Changes for New York’s Essential Plan Enrollees
Due to recent federal government actions, some New Yorkers enrolled in the Essential Plan may lose their healthcare coverage by the end of Tuesday, unless they take immediate steps.
Those in the basic tiers of the Essential Plan (1 – 4) will continue to have their coverage. However, individuals in the expanded Essential Plan who earn between 200% and 250% of the federal poverty level must act quickly. They can do this by visiting the New York State of Health marketplace at nystateofhealth.ny.gov or calling 855-355-5777 for assistance.
Lis Benjamin, who oversees health initiatives at the Community Service Society, explained that many affected individuals work part-time or in low-wage jobs that don’t provide health insurance. For them, the cheapest options, like the Bronze Plan, can cost around $1,000 each month. Fortunately, many of these individuals might qualify for advanced premium tax credits, which can lower their monthly payments by nearly half. To see if you’re eligible for these credits, go to the New York State of Health website to apply.
If you need more help, you can contact the Community Service Society at 888-614-5400, where personal assistants are available to help you find the best healthcare options and tax credits that might apply to you.
The New York State Department of Health (DOH) has been proactively working to inform those affected by these changes. They stated, “We are dedicated to supporting New Yorkers who have lost their Essential Plan coverage due to the recent federal legislation. We aim to provide personalized assistance to ensure a smooth transition to new plans.”
In April and May, the DOH sent out notices to 450,000 individuals whose coverage is changing and also reached out via emails and text messages.
The enrollment period for new coverage, which is retroactive to July 1, will close on August 30.
Resources for Assistance:
- Visit the New York State of Health marketplace at nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 855-355-5777.
- Check out fact sheets on “Free or Low-Cost Health Care Resources” for those who become uninsured and learn about “Continuity of Care” options for transitioning to new coverage.
- For help from a personal assistant at the Community Service Society, call 888-614-5400.
