New York: NYSoH informs job seekers about affordable health insurance

via NY State of Health:

Enrollment Remains Open Across All Marketplace Programs for Duration of Public Health Emergency Unwind

Albany, N.Y. (February 28, 2024) – Representatives from NY State of Health, the state’s official health plan Marketplace, will make an appearance at job fairs across the State beginning next month to inform New Yorkers about their options for quality, affordable health insurance. Certified enrollment assistants will be available to help uninsured job seekers find a plan that fits their budget and health needs and guide existing enrollees through the new renewal process to keep their coverage current.

“Choosing the right health insurance is very important when accepting new employment,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. “The Department and NY State of Health will continue to keep New Yorkers informed, while assisting them in finding health insurance that best fits their needs.” 

“NY State of Health continues to help job seekers get and maintain affordable health insurance through the Marketplace,” NY State of Health Executive Director Danielle Holahan said. “Our assistors will be at job fairs to answer questions and provide resources to consumers seeking employment, so they can learn about health insurance options and the financial support available to pay for it.”

Annual renewals for individuals enrolled in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and the Essential Plan resumed in Spring 2023 after being suspended during the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency (PHE). New York State is providing outreach and assistance to over 9 million public health insurance enrollees to ensure they maintain their coverage. 

NY State of Health is sending renewal notices on a rolling basis to enrollees in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and the Essential Plan. The New York City Human Resources Administration (HRA), and local Departments of Social Services are also sending notices to Medicaid enrollees. 

NY State of Health Open Enrollment for Qualified Health Plans began on November 16, 2023, and will extend through May 2024, allowing consumers who become ineligible for Medicaid or the Essential Plan to enroll in a Qualified Health Plan. Enrollment is open all-year for Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and the Essential Plan. 

Current public program enrollees may need to take action to keep their health insurance. NY State of Health will notify consumers via email, text, and/or mail when it is time for them and their family members to renew their coverage. Consumers are encouraged to keep their address, phone number, and other contact information current online in their NY State of Health account. They can also call 1-855-355-5777, or contact an enrollment assistor to update their information. Consumers can also receive text alerts from NY State of Health by texting START to 1-866-988-0327. 

All plans through the Marketplace provide a comprehensive benefits package, including free preventive care, such as routine office visits and recommended screenings, and doctor’s visits, hospital stays, emergency care, and other health services. 

How to Enroll

There are three ways to enroll in a health plan through the Marketplace:

• Receive free personalized help in your preferred language from a Certified Enrollment Assistor. Consumers can find one here.

• Call the NY State of Health Customer Service Center at 1-855-355-5777.

• Visit NY State of Health. A web chat feature is available to consumers during Customer Service Center hours to help them complete their applications.