Public Health Insurance Assistance in New York
Basic health insurance can be expensive, especially for families. The cost of not being insured, however, is also high. Seedco and our partner community-based organizations can help individuals and families enroll and re-certify in New York State’s free and low-cost public health insurance programs under the umbrella of Medicaid and Child Health Plus.
Seedco assists applicants with every step of the complex application process for free. For applicants who fall outside of Seedco’s geographic jurisdiction, we can provide referrals to the right organization or agency.
The facilitated enrollment process includes:
- Eligibility screenings
- Assistance with required documents, forms, and proofs
- Completion of application forms
- Selection of managed care plans
- Submission of the application or re-certification to New York City Human Resource Administration or health plans for enrollment and re-certification decision
New York Public Health Insurance Programs
Medicaid
Medicaid is the most comprehensive public health insurance program for low-income adults and children living in the United States. Eligibility for New York State applicants depends on a number of factors including residency, income and immigration status. Medicaid covers children and adults up to age 65. Enrollment in Medicaid affords a wide variety of medical services, most of which are provided for free through managed care health plan programs. Other services may require small co-pays.
Family Health Plus
Family Health Plus is a public health insurance program for low-income adults aged 19 to 64 with income too high to qualify for Medicaid. It is a New York State program, and like Medicaid, eligibility is contingent upon meeting specific guidelines in regards to residency, income, immigration status and other criteria. There are minimal co-payments for some services. All services are provided through managed care programs.
Child Health Plus
In New York State, children under 19 years of age are eligible for Child Health Plus. Eligibility is contingent on family income and residency, among other factors. It is free for some families while others must pay small monthly premiums depending on their income.
To see if you are qualified for any of the plans mentioned, please email Monica Escobar at mescobar@seedco.org or call (917) 338-9215.
