Making efforts to ensure continuous healthcare coverage for New York residents following significant federal healthcare disruptions
In a significant move, the Republican-led Congress passed the "One Big Beautiful Bill" in July, a legislation that aims to make the most substantial cuts to the U.S. safety net in modern history. This bill has sparked controversy and disapproval among healthcare advocates nationwide, including Elisabeth Benjamin, vice president and managing director of health initiatives at the Community Service Society of New York (CSSNY).
CSSNY, established more than 180 years ago, has been dedicated to improving the lives of working and low-income New Yorkers. Around 30 years ago, the organization recognised the challenges of accessing healthcare in New York, regardless of location, insurance status, or immigration history.
One of CSSNY's most notable achievements was the design of New York state's Essential Plan in 2012. This no-cost healthcare coverage was offered to people above the Medicaid income cutoff or with lawful U.S. presence but ineligible for Medicaid due to immigration status. Elisabeth Benjamin played a crucial role in creating this service, as well as a program that helps people navigate their health coverage.
CSSNY's efforts extend beyond the Essential Plan. They train navigators at community groups to help people with health coverage challenges. These navigators are instrumental in guiding individuals through the complexities of the healthcare system, which CSSNY found to be cost-prohibitive, difficult, and cumbersome.
The "One Big Beautiful Bill" poses a threat to these hard-earned healthcare advancements. The legislation significantly reduces healthcare assistance for immigrants, even those lawfully present in the U.S. It also terminates Affordable Care Act marketplace subsidies, which could lead to a 75% increase in plan costs.
Moreover, the bill includes restrictions on Medicaid, mainly work requirements, which experts predict could result in 15 million people being removed from the program by 2034. This could have a devastating impact on New York's low-income residents, many of whom rely on Medicaid for their healthcare needs.
Despite these challenges, CSSNY continues its mission to improve healthcare access for New Yorkers. They have special programs for people with age, disability, managed long-term care, mental health, and/or substance issues. And for those in need of assistance, CSSNY offers a toll-free help line (888-614-5400).
CSSNY's work is more important now than ever before. As the "One Big Beautiful Bill" takes effect, the organization will continue to advocate for the rights of New York's most vulnerable residents, ensuring they have access to the healthcare they need and deserve.
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