Visits to doctors are covered, as are hospitalizations, X-rays, and surgery. But the co-payments are often higher than with other HMOs. The plan also excludes a number of benefits that normally must be included under New York law, including home health care, chiropractic care, outpatient substance-abuse treatment, and mental health care. As a result, Healthy New York premiums are significantly less than those of standard HMO plans available to people whose employers don't offer insurance. But not all small businesses currently without health insurance qualify.
Sole proprietors are eligible, but the same income limit applies.
For now, however, that's cold comfort for entrepreneurs grappling with the latest hike in premiums. Business Week Online may receive a share of any fees you pay for services. The McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. All rights reserved.