New York Attorney General Letitia James and State Health Commissioner (DOH) Dr. James McDonald caution New Yorkers about health insurance enrollment scams as the 2024 enrollment through the NY State of Health began on November 16th.
The NY State of Health, New York’s Health Plan Marketplace, offers one-stop health insurance shopping for public health programs (Medicaid, Child Health Plus and the Essential Plan). Earlier this year, after the pandemic’s continuous coverage rules expired, NYS resumed the practice of reviewing and renewing eligibility for those enrolled in public health programs. Health insurance scams regarding these renewals are increasing.
New Yorkers should be wary of scammers who call, text or email pretending to be from the NY State of Health or other State agencies. Scammers prey on New Yorkers who are trying to obtain or keep health insurance by:
- Threatening New Yorkers that their Medicaid or other health coverage is at risk for cancellation or that they have already lost their Medicaid or other health coverage unless they provide hundreds of dollars to reinstate or continue benefits.
- Using false offers of generosity to lure New Yorkers into providing personal information – typically done by offering people gift cards or money to “update” their health accounts so as not to lose coverage.
Follow these helpful tips:
- No one can ever charge a fee to renew health insurance in Medicaid, Child Health Plus or the Essential Plan.
- If enrolled in health insurance through the NY State of Health, many people are available to help you renew for free. For information or guidance, visit the NY State of Health website or call 855-355-5777.
- Many websites will try to make residents think that they are the official New York State health insurance marketplace. There is only one official NY State of Health website.
- Submitting contact information to some websites may lead to calls, texts or emails from scammers.
- Report suspected fraud.
Any New Yorker who suspects that they are a victim of a scam is encouraged to report it to the Office of the Attorney General by submitting a complaint online or calling 800-771-7755.