For adults and seniors:
- If you currently have no medical insurance, you may be eligible for medical coverage provided through the New York State health insurance Marketplace. You apply online at: nystateofhealth.ny.gov. For assistance in navigating the Marketplace, you may contact a certified Navigator in your area, which can be found on the list linked here. You usually have to make an appointment, although some walk-in service is available.
- If you are eligible for public assistance due to a low-income, are under 65 and/or disabled, your application for health insurance must go through the Marketplace.
- If you are over 65, you are eligible to enroll in Medicare. You can enroll by going to Medicare.gov. Medicare has several parts and a number of options for service. Free one-to-one assistance with enrollment and understanding your insurance options is offered at several local libraries’ Senior Benefits Information Centers.
- If you are over 65 and have a low-income, your health insurance coverage would combine Medicaid and Medicare. You must apply for this through the Westchester County Department of Social Services. You can get a head start on applying and understanding your options by contacting the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services Medicare Information line at (914) 813-6100.
For children:
- New York State has a health insurance plan for kids, called Child Health Plus. Depending on your family’s income, your child may be eligible. As for adults, the application for this health insurance is done through the New York State health insurance Marketplace.
If the application for health insurance is denied or takes longer than 45 days to be processed, you can request a fair hearing.
The agencies and services listed below address specific issues such as prescription drug savings and insurance for children.