Program Information
AHI’s Enrollment Assistance Services and Education (EASE) programs have assisted individuals, families and small business owners with enrollment in health insurance coverage through the NY State of Health Marketplace since 2013. AHI has two groups of community-based enrollment assistors; one subcontracted with the New York State of Health (NYSOH) through the Community Service Society of NY (CSS) and the second subcontracted with NYSOH through Hudson Headwaters Health Network (HHHN). Both groups provide expertise to clients throughout the NYSOH health insurance application process and in health plan selection.
We don’t charge and we are not an insurance company. AHI's team of certified Enrollment Specialists provide free, unbiased assistance for those looking to enroll in health insurance. Enrollment Specialists help clients review available plan options and find out if they are eligible for financial assistance.
More About EASE
The EASE Department is a team of Enrollment Specialists — NYS certified Navigators and Certified Application Counselors who assist individuals and families with enrolling in or renewing coverage through the New York State of Health Marketplace. Appointments can take place either over the phone or in-person at one of our sites located in communities throughout our eight-county region. We can help individuals enroll in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Essential Plan, or a Qualified Health Plan. Eligibility for these health insurance programs is based on factors such as household size and income. There are no fees associated with the service we provide. We are completely non-biased and not affiliated with any health insurance company. We also provide education on health insurance and the Affordable Care Act through participation in community events and through organizational presentations.
Who is EASE For?
Our team of Enrollment Specialists can assist most New York residents; however, eligibility requirements must be met to enroll in specific Marketplace products. Contact us for guidance with navigating the enrollment process!
Real Stories, From Real People
“I was referred to AHI for assistance with getting Insurance. If I could give them 10 stars I would. The staff I spoke with were courteous, friendly, efficient, professional, and knowledgeable. They made a rather difficult process easy. They communicated well and followed up when they said they would. If you live in the ‘dacks and need help navigating, contact these good people. You won’t regret it.”
~ Betty G.
“Absolutely, some of the most helpful people you could ever encounter when trying to navigate health insurance, etc. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with them!”
~ Stephen S.
FAQ
Are you insurance brokers?
No, we are New York State Certified Navigators and Certified Application Counselors. We have no affiliations with any health insurance plans, so we can offer you free, unbiased assistance.
Do you charge a fee for your service or earn commission?
No, this is a free service that AHI provides.
I need help with enrolling in health insurance, how does it work?
Call our toll-free phone number, 1.866.872.3740, or contact us via our website (here). Our Program Assistant will answer your questions and give you all the information you need to make an appointment with one of our Certified Assistors!
What happens during an enrollment appointment?
One of our NY State Certified Assistors will meet with you in person or over the phone to help you through the Marketplace application process. They will ask you questions regarding your household to help determine what insurance programs you may be eligible for. Then they will walk you through your options and help you finalize your enrollments!
Do I need to bring money with me to my appointment?
No. If there are any premiums to be paid for the insurance you enroll in, you will make those payments directly to the insurance plan once you receive a bill.
How long will an appointment take?
Our appointments typically take under an hour to complete and may take as little as 20 minutes! We may need to follow up with you again if documents are required to complete your enrollment or if you need some time to decide which plan you’d like to enroll in.
Can you help me enroll in Medicare?
At this time, Medicare enrollment is not an option through the Marketplace. We can assist with enrollment in Medicaid, Essential Plan, Child Health Plus, and Qualified Health Plans.
What if I can get insurance through my employer?
Can I still enroll in coverage through the Marketplace? Possibly! Give us a call and we’ll answer all your questions!
Contact Us
AHI is here to serve the community — in-person or over the phone, at no charge. We can help you navigate the health insurance enrollment process and answer all your questions along the way.
Please submit your contact and non-medical information and an EASE representative will respond. Or call toll-free 1.866.872.3740
Note: Content submitted via this form is received by an administrative department and checked only during normal business hours. Please do not share personal medical information.
Learn More
Types of Plans Available through the NYSOH Marketplace
Qualified Health Plans
New York State residents may be able to enroll in a Qualified Health Plan through the NY State of Health Marketplace. Individuals, families, and small business owners can shop for, compare, and enroll in a health insurance plan. All insurance plans available in the Marketplace offer comprehensive coverage. The Marketplace is also the only place to get financial assistance to reduce the cost of coverage.
Enrollment Period: November 1 – December 15.
*Qualifying life events may allow enrollment outside this period.
Child Health Plus
Child Health Plus is a FREE or LOW-COST health insurance program for children from birth to 19 years of age. There are no copays or deductibles associated with the program, which has become an affordable option for many families.
Benefits include physical exams, immunizations, illness and injury diagnoses, X-ray and lab tests, outpatient surgery, emergency care, prescription and non-prescription drugs, inpatient hospital medical/surgical care, mental health services, dental care, vision care, and speech and hearing services.
Every child is welcome to apply, regardless of family income or immigration status. Children may not be eligible if they already have other health insurance or have access to the public employees’ New York State Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP).
Enrollment Period: All year.
Medicaid
Enrollment Period: All year.
Essential Plan
NY State of Health’s Essential Plan includes comprehensive benefits with $0 monthly premiums and very low-cost sharing. The Essential Plan has no deductible, so the plan starts paying for your health insurance right away. It covers comprehensive benefits, including dental and vision, inpatient and outpatient hospital care, prescription drugs and more.
Enrollment period: All year.
Enrollment Documents Needed
Arrive at your appointment prepared
In order to enroll in Medicaid, Child Health Plus, the Essential Plan, or a Qualified Health Plan through the NY State of Health Marketplace, you should have access to the following information:
- Social Security numbers and birthdates for everyone in the household
- Income documentation (tax return and/or pay stubs)
- Current insurance (please bring your insurance card)
- If applicable:
- Citizenship documentation
- Your online NY Gov ID and password
