Navigating healthcare options in New York City can feel overwhelming, especially when concerns about costs and insurance coverage arise. NYC Health + Hospitals is committed to providing equitable, high-quality medical services to all residents, regardless of immigration status or ability to pay. They offer a variety of programs and sliding fee scales designed to ensure that no one is turned away due to financial limitations. Understanding your options and the steps to access care can help you stay healthy and secure the support you need.

No Health Insurance? Help Is Available

If you lack health insurance, there’s no need to worry. Everyone has the right to receive affordable, quality health care. Enrolling in a health insurance plan is the most effective way to reduce costs associated with medical visits, prescriptions, and ongoing treatment. Our team can guide you through the available insurance options and assist with the enrollment process to find the best plan for you and your family. For those who do not qualify or cannot afford standard insurance plans, NYC offers financial assistance programs such as NYC Care and Options, which help make healthcare accessible and affordable. These programs are especially beneficial for uninsured residents, including those ineligible for government insurance programs.

How can I learn about my options?

Consult with a NYC Health + Hospitals financial counselor who can evaluate your eligibility and help you enroll in free or low-cost health insurance plans. Our counselors are trained to assist you in exploring various coverage options tailored to your circumstances. If you find yourself ineligible for insurance or unable to afford coverage, you may qualify for one of our financial aid programs. These programs are designed to support individuals and families who need help paying for medical services.

NYC Care specifically serves residents who are ineligible for traditional insurance or face financial barriers to coverage. Meanwhile, Options provides assistance to individuals living in or visiting New York City, Nassau County, and Westchester County, enabling access to care at our hospitals and health centers across Queens, the Bronx, and surrounding areas.

Why is having health insurance so important?

While no one plans to get sick or injured, unforeseen health issues can occur at any time, often leading to significant medical expenses. Having insurance coverage helps manage these costs, covering hospital stays, medications, and routine preventive services. Moreover, insured individuals are more likely to receive regular checkups and screenings, which are crucial for early detection and ongoing health maintenance. This proactive approach keeps you and your family healthier in the long run.

What documents do I need to apply?

Applying for insurance or financial assistance requires providing some personal information and proof of income. Our counselors will guide you through the process, ensuring your application remains secure and confidential. To complete your application, you may need documents such as proof of identity, income, and address. If applying in person, bring these documents with you; if applying over the phone or online via MyChart, you can upload or submit them during your appointment. Don’t worry if you lack certain documents—our team is here to help you navigate these requirements.

Examples of acceptable documents include:

  • Proof of identity: Driver’s license, passport, green card, or school ID.
  • Proof of income: Recent pay stubs, employment verification, or benefit award letters.
  • Proof of residence: Utility bills, lease agreements, or mortgage statements.
  • Insurance eligibility determinations: Any previous screening results from other organizations or the New York State of Health marketplace.

What are the costs involved?

Many insurance plans are available free or at low cost. If you qualify for financial assistance, your payments will be based on your income, and in some cases, you might pay nothing at all—just as low as $0 for a doctor’s visit. To see specific fee schedules, visit the NYC Health + Hospitals Financial Assistance Fee Schedule. We also provide detailed policies to clarify how fees are calculated.

For further information on our financial support options in your language, you can access this PDF, which is available in multiple languages including Spanish, Arabic, Bengali, and more.

What if I receive a bill while awaiting my insurance approval or financial aid?

Rest assured, if you’ve applied for coverage or assistance, you will not be billed during the review process. If a bill does arrive, contact us promptly and request to speak with a financial counselor who can assist you in resolving the issue.

Applying for Coverage or Financial Help

Getting the support you need is straightforward. Call our dedicated line at 1-844-692-4692, select option 3, and speak with a trained financial counselor. They can help you complete the application over the phone or schedule an in-person appointment at one of our facilities.

Alternatively, you can request assistance through MyChart if you are registered, or download and print a paper application from our website using the provided link. Completed forms can be uploaded via MyChart or brought to your appointment. We also offer multilingual application forms to ensure language is not a barrier to access.

For more details on how to navigate the application process, visit this resource, which provides guidance on developing effective healthcare applications and navigating complex enrollment procedures.

Access to affordable health services and financial support programs is vital for maintaining your health and well-being. Whether through insurance enrollment or financial assistance, NYC Health + Hospitals is dedicated to ensuring every resident receives the care they deserve.