Expanding Healthcare Access for New York's Youngest

Benefits of Continuous Healthcare Coverage

Providing continuous coverage for children aged six and under leads to a multitude of benefits. A Georgetown University study found that it results in better health, reduced school absenteeism, and improved academic performance. Extended coverage for children can potentially lead to fewer lost work days for parents and reduced medical debt. Even a short gap in coverage can result in a child missing needed care for chronic conditions like asthma, which can lead to emergency room visits and missed school days.

New York is now one of seven states to offer this continuous coverage, and more than 800,000 children under the age of six are enrolled in Medicaid or Child Health Plus and could benefit. This change will mean less absences in childcare or school for our little ones and fewer missed days at work for parents, as stated by González-Rojas. Brouk, on the other hand, said the bill "lifts the burden of annual re-enrollment" by offering continuous healthcare coverage to children aged six or under. This legislation will support parents by giving children access to preventative care without interruptions, reducing barriers in healthcare and ensuring that our young people receive the care they deserve.

Support for the Legislation

New York Legal Assistance Group (NYLAG), Community Service Society (CSS), the Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy, Medicaid Matters NY, the NYC Health and Hospitals System, the Robin Hood Foundation, SEIU 1199, and SEIU Doctors Council all supported the legislation when it was introduced last year. Kate Breslin, president and CEO at the Schuyler Center for Analysis and Advocacy, stated that uninterrupted healthcare coverage can provide several benefits for children and their families. Parents can access regular check-ups, scheduled vaccines, and preventive health services for their child, setting them up for a healthy start. Continuous Medicaid and CHP coverage is a big win for children and families across the state and ensures that New York will remain a leader in providing affordable, comprehensive health insurance coverage for children.