Western New York leaders are sending a message to those without health insurance - NOW is the time to enroll in an affordable health plan.
Local leaders are urging those with no health insurance to contact a local navigator to provide free neutral enrollment advice for an affordable health plan. Bill Covington, Buffalo-Niagara Organizer of The Healthcare Education Project says there are plans for different income levels and there's even financial assistance for some.
"The range of income is pretty broad," says Covington, adding "It comes in the form of a tax rebate, when folks file their taxes. So that can bring the cost down. In some cases, we know that folks have been surprised to find out that their premium is little or nothing."
Covington notes at last count, more than 32,000 Erie County residents and just over 8,400 Niagara County residents have enrolled in affordable health plans.
Covington adds the push to enroll Western New Yorkers coincides with the New York State of Health's open enrollment which runs through February 15th of next year.
You can enroll online via the New York State of Health or contact a local navigator at one of the following numbers for assistance:
Neighborhood Legal Services: 847-0650
Kaleida Health 859-8979
Niagara Falls Medical Center 278-4264
Healthy Community Alliance (Springville) 532-1010