The New York State Department of Health’s NY State of Health insurance marketplace began an open enrollment period on Saturday, Nov 15.
And, clearly, many people need help understanding their options.
"You and your family have many new low cost, quality health insurance options available through the Individual Marketplace," The New York State of Health website (https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/) advises. "You can quickly compare health plan options and apply for assistance that could lower the cost of your health coverage. You may also qualify for health care coverage from Medicaid or Child Health Plus through the Marketplace."
Consequently Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center has joined the state initiative and has undertaken to train and station "navigators" - people who undergo training to understand various health insurance coverage options, and are able to assist individuals to apply and enroll in a health insurance coverage plan that is right for them.
Memorial will provide assistance at several locations across Niagara County during the next few weeks.
“All existing marketplace qualified health plans will expire Dec. 31,” said Christin Culligan, Memorial’s director of health insurance In Person Assistance/Navigation. “This year, individuals will need to determine if they want to stay in their current plan or change plans. Open enrollment will continue until Feb. 15, 2015 but to have a plan in place by Jan. 1, you must enroll by Dec. 15.”
Consumers must make an appointment in order to be seen by a navigator. To request an appointment call 278-4264 or email navigator@nfmmc.org.
Navigators from Memorial, depending on dates, will be available at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, Lewiston Village Hall, YWCA of the Tonawandas, North Tonawanda, North Tonawanda Library, Dale Association, Lockport, and the Lockport Library.
Take advantage of the help. It’s free.
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