This past Saturday Carib News hosted a Community Health Town Hall at the Wake Eden Community Baptist Church in the Bronx. The event was indeed a successful one, proving that New Yorkers are definitely concerned about their health.
The event sponsored by Healthfirst, one of New York’s largest not-for-profit health insurance companies, has earned the trust of more than 1.8 million members by ensuring access to affordable and high-quality healthcare.
- Advertisement -
The Town Hall was an attempt to share the recent changes in the Medicare Savings Program that Governor Hochul announced in December 2022.
Missed it? No problem. These are the changes:
Since January 1, 2023, New York State expanded the Medicare Savings Program by raising the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) eligibility requirement.
What this means for you?
If you made too much to qualify for financial help in the past, you may now be eligible. With a new, increased income limits, you may now qualify for extra assistance through the Medicare Savings Program and/or Medicaid.
Speakers from several organizations came out to support the event and share quality and relevant information – including employees from Healthfirst, representatives from JASA, and the Medicare Rights Center.
The 90-minute program was both educational and informative, and engaged attendees on different fronts, from health concerns to insurance benefits.
Reverend Frank I. Williams, Senior Pastor of Wake-Eden Community Baptist Church was in attendance, along with members of his congregation who showed much gratitude for the shared information.
The packed agenda included Miguel Centeno, VP Community Engagement who gave opening remarks, talked about Healthfirst, and Pastor Phillip Falayi, Manager Faith-Based Initiatives, Healthfirst, shared on the company’s faith-based initiatives.
Emily Whicheloe, Director of Education, Medicare Rights Center, presented on Medicare Savings Plan.
Gilberto Ron, Director Navigator, Community Engagement at Healthfirst presented on Medicaid Recertifications and the changes that are happening post-COVID.
Dr. Karen M. Costley MD, MPH, AVP, Medical Director Healthfirst presented on Health and Wellness, and answered direct questions on health.
Takai Forde, Associate Director of Gov’t Affairs and Florian Edwards, Senior Director of Protective Services at JASA, shared on Elder Justice.
The combination of topics made for an interesting event intersting and led right into the Q&A portion, which was very welcomed by the audience.
The event was Carib News’ first, but will definitely be followed up with several more.
If you missed this event, please stay tuned to find out when we will visit your borough. Also, follow our Youtube channel for video recaps.
Looking for more info on the Medicare Savings Program, check out the link below https://healthfirst.org/medicare-savings-program-eligibility
