Publications > Electronic Applications Present Opportunities to Improve Enrollment into New York's Public Health Insurance Programs

In New York City, many residents apply for public health insurance with the help of health plans, providers, and community organizations. A study of the application process in these organizations showed that staff spend hours helping applicants complete an application, and it can take up to nearly six weeks before applicants find out if they are eligible. An automated application process could speed up the current application processing time and help applicants access medical care sooner by decreasing the transition time between agencies, reducing errors, and limiting duplication of effort. Automation could also allow enrollment organization staff and resources to be better utilized.

The Lewin report provided background information for the United Hospital Fund's own issue brief, Bringing Information Technology Innovation to New York's Public Health Insurance Programs