New York State Health Plan Changes Leave Bloomfield Woman with Unexpected Costs
Lorri Anne Newman, a resident of Bloomfield, New York, is facing unexpected financial burdens due to changes in the state's Essential Plan. Following federal funding cuts, the Essential Plan was discontinued, affecting approximately 450,000 New Yorkers. Newman, who previously paid no monthly premium and had no deductible under the Essential Plan, now faces a $464 monthly premium and a $10,600 deductible with her new health insurance plan. Despite being promised a prorated deductible due to the mid-year transition, Newman reports that the adjustment has not been made, leaving her with nearly $8,000 in costs. The New York State Department of Health has asked insurers to prorate deductibles for those transitioning to Qualified Health Plans, but Newman claims that Excellus BlueCross BlueShield and the state health department are deflecting responsibility. 
