Consumers Can Now Enroll in a Qualified Health Plan for 2021 | The State

Enrollment through NY State of Health is now open, the official state health plan Marketplace is here! NY State of Health is your place to shop, compare, and enroll in a low-cost, quality plan that’s right for you. And it’s the only place you can get income-based financial assistance to lower your costs even more. NY State of Health is here to help you find quality, affordable health plans that fit your needs and budget.

Access to health insurance is particularly important as New York continues to face a global pandemic, and all New Yorkers who are currently enrolled in a qualified health plan through the NY State of Health are encouraged to renew their coverage for 2021.

Consumers who enroll between January 1 and January 15 will have a coverage start date of February 1, 2021. Consumers who enroll between January 16 and January 31 will have a coverage start date of coverage on March 1, 2021.

Enrollment is open year round if you are eligible for Medicaid, Child Health Plus, or the Essential Plan. Many New Yorkers will qualify for Medicaid, Child Health Plus or the Essential Plan due to loss of income / employment or reduced wages. Due to the current public health emergency from COVID-19, consumers who are already enrolled in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, or the Essential Plan will automatically continue their coverage and do not need to renew at this time.

The 12 insurers that offered Qualified Health Plans last year are offering them again for 2021. NY State of Health offers Qualified Health Plans in four tiers: platinum, gold, silver and bronze. Again, consumers have a wide variety of Essential Plan insurer options, with 15 insurers offering the plan.

All plans offered through the Marketplace cover doctor visits; hospital stays; emergency care; maternity and newborn care; mental health and substance use disorder services; prescription drugs; rehabilitation and habilitation services and devices; laboratory services; preventive and wellness services, management of chronic diseases and pediatric dental and vision.

Plus, all NY State of Health plans provide free preventive benefits for annual checkups and screenings. Many now also offer three additional free or low-cost primary / sick care visits. This benefit ensures that you can get primary care when you need it, without worrying about cost.