Earlier this month, the NY State of Health (NYSOH), New York’s official health plan Marketplace, released its 2018 Open Enrollment Report. As of January 31, 2018 more than 4.3 million New Yorkers enrolled in coverage through NYSOH. This represents an increase of nearly 700,000 people compared to last year’s open enrollment.

According to the report, more than 259,000 people enrolled in Qualified Health Plans (QHPs), and nearly 60 percent qualified for federal subsidies to make monthly premiums more affordable. In 2018, monthly premiums for individuals remained 50 percent lower on average than before the establishment of the Marketplace, and most New Yorkers purchasing QHPs had at least four insurers to choose from.

The report also highlights the continued success of the Essential Plan (EP), New York’s Basic Health Program, which now has more than 738,000 people enrolled – an 11 percent increase since the end of January 2017. Ninety-two percent of individuals determined eligible for EP ultimately enrolled in coverage, and enrolling in EP saved consumers an average of $1100 per year compared to a higher cost QHP.

There are also more than 2.9 million New Yorkers enrolled in Medicaid through the Marketplace and nearly 375,000 enrolled in Child Health Plus.

Finally, the report emphasizes the important role in-person assistors continue to play in enrolling New Yorkers in health insurance coverage. In 2018, 77 percent of New Yorkers who enrolled in coverage through NYSOH did so with the help of an in-person assistor, including Navigators, certified application counselors, and insurance brokers. New Yorkers who enrolled in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and Essential Plan coverage were more likely to do so with in-person assistance.

New York’s commitment to strong health insurance programs and consumer assistance have helped the State reach a historic low of 4.9 percent uninsured.

Open enrollment for 2018 has ended, but New Yorkers eligible for Medicaid, Child Health Plus, or Essential Plan coverage can enroll at any time through the NYSOH website. New Yorkers who experience a qualifying life event may also be eligible for a special enrollment period to enroll in a QHP. If you need help enrolling, Navigators are available to provide in-person assistance. Please visit online or call (888) 614-5400 to find a Navigator in your area.