New York Expands Health Coverage for Older Undocumented Immigrants

New insurance option provides essential medical benefits for seniors regardless of immigration status

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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New York State has expanded health insurance access to a previously excluded population: undocumented immigrants aged 65 and over. Beginning January 1, 2024, this group is now eligible for a new Medicaid-based health insurance plan that covers a range of essential medical services, including routine doctor visits, screenings, and prescription drugs.

Why it matters

This expansion addresses a critical gap in healthcare access for older adults who lack documented immigration status. Previously, many undocumented seniors faced significant barriers to receiving necessary medical care, often delaying treatment until conditions became severe. The new insurance option aims to provide these individuals with consistent access to preventive and primary care, potentially improving health outcomes and reducing reliance on emergency room visits.

The details

Eligibility for the new insurance plan depends on meeting certain income and other requirements. Those who already have Emergency Medicaid will be automatically transitioned into the new plan. The comprehensive coverage includes routine doctor visits, screenings, laboratory tests, wellness services, and prescription drugs. This expansion builds upon existing Medicaid provisions in New York that allow undocumented pregnant individuals and adults under 65 to access some level of care.

  • The new insurance option for undocumented immigrants aged 65 and over began on January 1, 2024.

The players

New York City Health Department

The department is actively involved in facilitating enrollment for the new insurance plan, with enrollment counselors available at various locations throughout the city to assist eligible individuals.

GetCoveredNYC

Individuals can contact this service by calling 311 to request assistance with navigating the application process and understanding their coverage options.

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What’s next

Ongoing monitoring and evaluation of the program's effectiveness will be crucial to assess any challenges and make necessary adjustments to ensure the plan continues to meet the needs of this vulnerable population.

The takeaway

The implementation of this new health insurance option for undocumented immigrants aged 65 and over represents a significant step towards achieving universal healthcare coverage in New York State. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other states seeking to expand healthcare access to all their residents, regardless of immigration status.