They may be eligible for low or no cost health insurance through New York State.
Child Health Plus
Free or Low-Cost Health Insurance for Kids
Child Health Plus is a New York State sponsored health insurance program that offers free or very low-cost health insurance for children ages newborn to 19 who live in New York State. Child Health Plus is administered locally by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. Health insurers throughout the State participate in the Child Health Plus program, so no matter where you live in New York state you may be eligible for Child Health Plus.
Benefits Coverage
Child Health Plus generally pays for routine and preventive outpatient health care. It will also cover your children if they need to be hospitalized. It covers the cost for regular medical services, check ups, immunization shots, prescription drugs, non-prescription drugs, vision care, dental care, mental healthcare, x-rays and basic laboratory tests, and overnight hospital stays. Hospital emergency room treatment is covered only if it involves an actual medical emergency or accidental injury.
How much does it cost?
The cost of Child Health Plus depends on where your family income falls compared with the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). Depending on your family income, you may have to pay a contribution toward the premium. The contributions are $0, $9, $15, $30, $45 or $60 per child per month based on your household size and gross family income. If your household income exceeds the New York State Department of Health's income guidelines, you can enroll your child for the full premium per month.
How to Apply
You can apply for your child's coverage on-line through NYSOH by visiting www.nysofhealth.ny.gov. If you would like assistance in applying for coverage, call NYSOH's Consumer Service Center at 1-855-355-5775.
Local residents may also contact the Southern Tier Independence Center at 607-724-2111 for help applying.