New York Public Health Insurance Programs

Insurance premiums can be a costly financial burden for those who cannot afford them. Health care costs consistently increase each year, and premiums follow suit. Citizens of New York (a state who's biggest city tops a 2009 "Forbes" list of the most expensive cities in America) may find themselves looking for more affordable public health options that provide adequate coverage at reduced prices.

Child Health Plus

• Child Health Plus is a public health insurance program available to children who are residents of New York. Coverage includes medical, vision and dental needs in addition to preventative care. To qualify for the program, children must be under the age of 19 and cannot be covered under another health insurance plan. Eligibility is also dependent on parental/guardian income. Income requirements vary based on family size, but some families may have access to free premiums.

Medicaid

• Medicaid is available to people of all ages who meet minimum income requirements. For children, Medicaid coverage may be retroactive for up to 90 days prior to applying and being accepted into the Medicaid program. Premiums are always free for Medicaid members, and coverage includes home health care costs, prescription drugs, regular checkups, hospitalization, nursing home care, dental, vision and emergency room care. New York residents can call 311 and ask for the HRA Medicaid helpline to find out if they are eligible for Medicaid.

Family Health Plus

• Family Health Plus is a health insurance service available in New York. It is offered to citizens between the ages of 19 and 64 who are not covered by other health insurance plans and meet certain income requirements. Coverage includes hospital visits, regular checkups, emergency room visits, prescriptions and specialist care. Some services covered under the Family Health Plus program require co-payments. Income requirements are updated yearly.

Prenatal Care Assistance Program

• The Prenatal Care Assistance Program is available to pregnant women who live in New York regardless of their citizenship or immigration status. All services related to pregnancy are covered under the program including lab work, sonograms, prenatal check-ups, nutrition services and HIV tests. Babies are covered under the program after birth for up to one full year. Like other state health programs, individuals enrolled in the plan must meet income eligibility requirements.

Medicare

• Medicare is provided by the federal government to citizens of all states who are over the age of 65, regardless of income. The program is divided into four sections: parts A, B, C and D. Individuals enrolled in all parts have access to hospital care, home health care and hospice care. Outpatient services, office visits and prescription drugs are also covered under the program's benefits. Some parts of Medicare require monthly premiums. In addition to senior citizens, individuals with certain disabilities may be eligible for Medicare coverage.