Government programs such as Medicaid and Medicare cover hospital, primary, and specialist care, emergency services, and essential medications. Coverage may be limited compared to private options, but includes preventive care, doctor’s visits, some prescriptions, and hospital treatment.

Costs depend on the program and your income level. Medicaid is typically free for qualifying low-income recipients, while Medicare has premiums and co-pays. Out-of-pocket expenses may apply for uncovered services or medications.

Low or no cost for eligible recipients, access to major hospitals, no exclusion for pre-existing conditions, and essential health benefits covered.

Not available to everyone, requires meeting strict eligibility criteria (income, age, or disability), limited choice of providers, and possible delays or administrative hurdles.

If you think you’re eligible, apply via the New York State of Health marketplace or the relevant federal program. Consider getting help from an enrollment assister.

Typically covers doctor’s visits, hospital care, surgery, emergency services, prescription drugs, and preventive care. Additional plans or extras may cover dental, vision, or specialist treatments.

Premiums, deductibles, and co-pays vary widely, averaging several hundred dollars per month per person. Many employers contribute to premium costs. Out-of-pocket costs can be high for non-subsidized plans.

Broader choice of doctors and hospitals, faster access to specialists, more flexibility in coverage options, and potential access to additional services like dental or vision.

High cost, especially without employer support or subsidies. Complex to compare plans and coverage. Charges for co-pays, deductibles, and non-covered services.

Any legal resident can purchase private insurance; pre-existing condition exclusions are prohibited since the ACA.

Compare plans via the ACA marketplace or directly on insurer websites. Check for preferred hospital and doctor networks before choosing.

Short-term expat health insurance policies are available for newly arrived residents, students, or non-citizens. These plans typically cover emergencies, some routine care, and may include evacuation.

Expat insurance is more flexible for new arrivals but usually offers less comprehensive or long-term protection than regular public or private insurance. Once settled, transition to a US-based plan is recommended.

Expat insurance may cover longer stays and routine care, while travel insurance generally covers only emergencies for brief visits.

Expat insurance is not legally sufficient for long-term US residency, nor does it meet ACA requirements. It may be refused by some providers and doesn’t prevent tax penalties.

Some community health clinics and non-profit organizations offer affordable or free healthcare to uninsured or undocumented residents. Student health plans are also available via New York colleges.

European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are not valid in the US. EU citizens must purchase health insurance locally or secure international coverage before arrival.

There is no US equivalent to the German KSK (public insurance for artists/freelancers). Freelancers in NY generally buy private insurance, sometimes subsidized via the ACA exchange.

Check if your employer offers health insurance. Otherwise, compare private and public options on the ACA marketplace. Apply promptly after arrival to avoid gaps in coverage.

Non-profit organizations, health navigators, and hospital enrollment counselors can help you find, compare, and enroll in insurance.