The United States Census Bureau released updated data yesterday that demonstrate the ongoing success of the New York State of Health (NYSOH) and the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Leaders of Health Care For All New York (HCFANY) – a coalition of over 170 health care consumer advocacy organizations – and other health advocates in New York State applaud the dramatic reductions in the uninsured rate. Before the implementation of the ACA the uninsured rate in New York was above 13%.
Today’s report from the Census Bureau shows that New York’s uninsured rate has fallen to 6.1%. This means that one million New Yorkers have gained coverage in only three years. The reduction in the number of uninsured can be directly credited to the success of the NYSOH, which has enrolled more than 3.6 million New Yorkers in health coverage since its inception.
“Health insurance coverage is central to protecting the health and financial wellbeing of New York’s children and families. Health Care For All New York looks forward to continuing to work with the New York State of Health and the Department of Health to ensure that all New Yorkers have access to quality, affordable health coverage,” said Elisabeth Benjamin, Vice President of Health Initiatives at the Community Service Society of New York.
NYSOH has extended open enrollment in New York through January 31, 2018 and is dedicated to continuing advertising, outreach, and funding for in-person enrollment assistance. Many New Yorkers may be confused by the recent efforts of the Trump Administration to undermine Marketplace enrollment, but these efforts will not affect New York. “We have come a long way since the ACA was first signed into law and we must continue to move forward to achieve universal coverage for New Yorkers,” said Bob Cohen, Policy Director, Citizen Action of New York.
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