Starting on Tuesday, October 1, individuals, families, and small businesses can purchase health insurance through New York State of Health, the official state health plan marketplace. People can compare insurance options; calculate costs; check eligibility and sign up for programs like Medicaid; learn about financial assistance; and enroll online, in-person, over the phone, or by mail. Coverage is effective starting January 1, 2014.

Trained representatives are available now to answer questions and help New Yorkers though every step of the process. NYSOH can be reached at 1-855-355-5777, Monday - Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. For more information about the NYSOH marketplace, visit http://info.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/.