Health insurance gives you better access to medical services, can improve your health, and protects you from paying high out of pocket costs if you get sick. New York State has a health insurance marketplace where you can shop for both public and private health plans called the NY State of Health, or NYSOH. You also have the option to purchase off-marketplace plans offered by various insurance companies. These plans are all subject to the Affordable Care Act (ACA) rules of minimum essential coverage and other ACA protections. Some important things to consider when choosing a plan are your eligibility, the services and benefits offered by the plan, and the cost of the plan.
Below is a list of health insurance programs offered in New York State. Click on the program to find out more information about your health plan options. If you need assistance choosing a health plan that works best for you, please contact CHA at 888-614-5400.
Health insurance programs in NYS:
MAGI Medicaid
and children living in New York, generally for people under the age of 65 who meet eligibility requirements. Link to the article.
Non-MAGI Medicaid
This is free or low-cost comprehensive public health insurance for those over age 65 or those with disabilities living in New York. Learn more about this program. Link to the article.
Child Health Plus
This is free or low-cost comprehensive public health insurance for children up to age 19.Learn more about this program. Link to the article.
The Essential Plan
This is comprehensive health insurance for low and moderate-income adults living in New York who are not eligible for Medicaid. You can purchase a health plan for as little as $20 per month. Learn more about this program. Link to the article.
Qualified Health Plan (QHP)
This is comprehensive health insurance you can purchase on the private market, regardless of your age or health status. All QHPs must cover essential health benefits required under the ACA. Depending on your income you may be eligible for financial assistance to reduce your monthly premium and out-of-pocket cost. Link to the article.
Medicare
Medicare provides health insurance to people over age 65 and people with disabilities without regard to income. Link to the article.
Small Business Options
SHOP is a program of the New York State of Health (NYSOH) insurance Marketplace where small businesses can search for health plan options to purchase and offer to current employees. Link to the article.
Employer-based Health Plans and COBRA
In NY, employers with 50 or more full-time employees (or the part-time equivalent) are generally required to offer health plans to their full-time employees. Link to the article.