Healthy New York Insurance Guidelines

In response to the number of uninsured Americans who are unable to afford private health care plans, some states have established programs that provide lower-cost options. In New York, residents can apply for coverage through the Healthy NY program.

Eligibility

• According to the New York State Insurance Department, residents are eligible for enrollment in the Healthy NY program if they or their spouses are currently employed or have been employed within the last year. Their employer cannot offer insurance coverage or they must have lost their coverage. Additionally, residents cannot be eligible for Medicare and must have a gross income that meets the program's current guidelines.

Features

• Healthy NY plans cover numerous services including preventative care, lab work, maternity care, health screenings and in-patient hospital care. Members also have the option to add a prescription coverage plan to their policy.

Considerations

• Before applying for a Healthy NY insurance plan, individuals should consider their specific health needs. Certain services are not covered in these policies including mental health, hospice, dental and vision care. In addition, applicants who have been diagnosed with or received treatment for a pre-existing condition in the last six months may not receive coverage for it for up to one year.