Health Insurance Information and Counseling ("HIICAP")

Through seminars, one-on-one counseling sessions, and the Information & Assistance Line; the Department’s HIICAP program provides information, education, and counseling regarding Medicare (including Part D), New York State EPIC, Long Term Care insurance, and other insurance issues. Trained HIICAP staff and volunteers can help you:

• compare private insurance plans that will best fit your needs;
• find ways to help you afford coverage and to fill Medicare’s gaps;
• understand what the 1% per month penalty for late enrollment means for you;
• solve issues and problems with your current plan.

If you would like to attend an upcoming clinic or educational presentation or to access a one-on-one counseling session, contact us at (518) 447-7177.

Medicare Website

Visit www.Medicare.gov to search for prescription plans for your area (click "Compare Medicare Prescription Drug Plans by State 2007") or to compare plans that match your drug list (click "Formulary Finder") or you may also find extra help to pay for your coverage (click "Lower Your Costs During the Coverage Gap").

On www.Medicare.gov you may also find out what Medicare covers, or compare health plans and Medigap policies, nursing homes, hospitals, dialysis facilities, or even find doctors and specialists in your area.

To speak to a Medicare representative call: 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users should call 1-877-486-2048.

EPIC Website

Visit http://www.health.state.ny.us/health_care/epic/ for more information about the New York State Prescription Plan for Seniors (65+). The site will help you understand the program benefits and eligibility. The EPIC application is also available on line. If you have any questions about the program call: 1 (800) 332-3742.

Other Helpful Websites and Contact Numbers

• Medicare Savings Programs can assist income eligible individuals/couples in paying for their Medicare premiums. For information and income eligibility visit NYS Health Dept Medicare Savings Program 2009.
• People who are over sixty-five, under 21, or blind or disabled, and who are over income for Medicaid may be able to qualify for Medicaid spenddown if they spend down enough of their income on medical bills and qualifying medical expenses.To find out more about current Medicaid income rates visit the NYS Dept of Health Medicaid in New York State and click the link: "How do I know if I qualify for Medicaid?" Contact Albany County NY-Connects at (518) 447-7177 for more information.
• Compare retail prices of the 150 most frequently used drugs in the most common quantities, at the NYS Dept of Health website: http://rx.nyhealth.gov/pdpw/
• www.hiicap.state.ny.us - NYS Office for Aging Health Insurance Information and Counseling page
• The NYS Insurance Dept provides updated information on LTC policies at http://www.ins.state.ny.us/lntmcare.htm; and rankings on health insurance companies at http://www.ins.state.ny.us/hgintro.htm
• www.cms.hhs.gov - CMS /The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
• www.socialsecurity.gov - Social Security Administration 1 (800) 772-1213 or TTY 1 (800) 325-0778
• Long-Term Care insurance can help you pay for costs related to a chronic medical condition or disabling injury while protecting your assets. LTC Insurance covers services provided in a nursing home, at home, in assisted living facility, or in other community-based settings. See http://www.nyspltc.org/ or to request NYS Partnership for Long Term care brochures and information call (518) 447-7177.