Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) - NY Bridge Plan
Now Available!
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The federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act, which together comprise the new federal health care reform law, were signed into law by President Obama on March 23, 2010, and March 30, 2010, respectively. The health care reform law contains a provision for the establishment of a temporary statewide insurance pool for high risk individuals. Coverage through this program will be available until January 2014 when more health insurance coverage options become available through a Health Insurance Exchange.
This new program is called the Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP) and will be available throughout the country. In New York State, the PCIP plan is called the NY Bridge Plan, and is administered by Group Health Incorporated (GHI), an EmblemHealth company.
The NY Bridge Plan provides health coverage to individuals who have a pre-existing medical condition, have not had insurance for six months, and who are legal residents.
The NY Bridge Plan covers a broad range of health benefits, including primary and specialty care, hospital care, and prescription drugs. Eligibility is not based on income and the Plan does not charge a higher premium because of a pre-existing condition. Coverage for a pre-existing condition begins right away, with no waiting period.
Applications will be available beginning August 20, 2010, with coverage effective October 1, 2010. Enrollment is on a first-come, first-served basis. If the NY Bridge Plan reaches capacity, a waiting list will be established.
More information on the NY Bridge Plan, including the application and brochure, is available at: www.nybridgeplan.com
If you need an application and brochure mailed to you, please call 1-877-444-9622.
Questions?
Eligibility Specialists are available to answer your questions and to offer enrollment assistance. Call the NY Bridge Plan toll free from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm, Monday through Friday at 1-866-NY-EZ-APP (1-866-693-9277) TDD 1-877-448-4975.
More Information
- Press Release: "Governor Paterson Announces State Application to Participate in Pre-Existing Condition Insurance Plan" (07/02/2010)
- Press Release: "Governor Paterson Announces New York to Participate in High Risk Pool Under Federal Health Care Reform" (04/30/2010)
- Letter of Intent to Establish a High Risk Pool to the federal Department of Health and Human Services (PDF format)
Updated 08/19/2010
