Health Insurance Types
There are several types of health insurance: Paid insurance Marketplace, Medicaid, and Medicare. There is also a subtype called Emergency.
Medicaid – fully free insurance. Available to all children in every state; in a few states, adults may also qualify. Names vary by state: in California it’s Medi-Cal, in Washington it’s Apple Health.
Marketplace – regular paid insurance that covers part of medical costs. Cost depends on income and may be as low as $1/month if no income, thanks to tax credits. Annual tax filings verify your income; depending on results, you may need to pay more or get a refund.
Medicare – free insurance for people over 65.
Emergency – free insurance covering only emergencies. Usually arranged directly at the hospital or Emergency Room.
Besides choosing the type of insurance, you must select a provider and plan.
Employer-provided insurance – if you are an official employee, your employer may provide and pay for your insurance as a benefit.
Medicaid – eligibility criteria vary by state. Many states have expanded Medicaid to cover more low-income adults. If unsure, you should still apply. Eligibility may depend on income, family size, age, disability, status, and other factors.
To apply:
1) Go to www.medicaid.gov/about-us/beneficiary-resources/index.html#CA
2) Select your state
3) Click "Enrollment"
On the same site you can find your state health department website and contacts. Agents can also help you apply for free.
NEW YORK
Insurance Agency: HEALTH BROKERS LLC
Agent services – free
Fidelis Care | UnitedHealthCare
Contacts:
t.me/Medicaid
www.healthbrokers.org/
3066 Brighton 6th St, Brooklyn, NY 11235
📞 (201) 473-1081
📞 (267) 767-6207
📞 (833) 743-0100
Languages spoken: 🇷🇺 Russian, 🇺🇦 Ukrainian, 🇵🇱 Polish, 🇺🇿 Uzbek, 🇹🇯 Tajik, 🇬🇧 English
Health Department:
www.health.ny.gov
+1-855-355-5777
WASHINGTON
Agent (free) – Olga +1-425-761-1960
Health Department:
www.wahealthplanfinder.org/
+1-855-923-4633 (Russian & translators available)
App – apps.apple.com/us/app/waplanfinder/id1222072510
You can apply for Medicaid (Apple Health) online, by phone, or in the app. Free coverage may be available for the entire family during the first six months. Indicate that you do not have an SSN because you are not eligible. Provide explanation if needed.
CALIFORNIA
Health Department:
www.mybenefitscalwin.org/
+1-866-262-9881 (translator available). Apply in person at DPSS office
Los Angeles specific site: benefitscal.com/
Statewide site (including paid products): www.coveredca.com/
Application does not guarantee Medi-Cal. Pregnant women usually approved. Adults may get emergency medical coverage.
Pregnancy and childbirth in California
Emergency medical covers prenatal care and childbirth. Can be applied for at hospital or ER.
FLORIDA
Agent +1-954-932-7300 Eric (English)
Health Department:
ahca.myflorida.com/
+1-888-419-3456
PENNSYLVANIA
Health Department:
www.dhs.pa.gov/Services/Assistance/Pages/Medical-Assistance.aspx
• Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Translations are provided for convenience and may contain errors or omissions. For guidance on your specific situation, always consult official sources or a qualified attorney.
