Governor Hassan and DHHS Announce Implementation Timeline for NH Health Protection Program

Press Release

Continuing efforts to strengthen the health and economic security of thousands of hard-working Granite Staters, Governor Hassan and Department of Health and Human Services Commissioner Nicholas A. Toumpas today announced that New Hampshire residents can begin applying for New Hampshire Health Protection Insurance coverage on July 1 and that insurance coverage will begin on Aug. 15th.

"The bipartisan New Hampshire Health Protection Program is a historic step forward for the health and economic well-being of New Hampshire families, businesses and communities," Governor Maggie Hassan said. "Beginning on July 1, people can begin applying for this important protection, and on August 15th, they will have the comfort and security that comes with knowing that they have access to affordable health care."

New Hampshire's bipartisan health care expansion plan, signed into law by the Governor in March makes New Hampshire citizens who are between 19 and 65 years of age and have a household income of up to 138 percent of the Federal Poverty Level eligible for new health care coverage.

Applications for the NHHPP may be submitted beginning on July 1, 2014, and coverage for the NHHPP will begin on August 15, 2014. Applications may be submitted online at www.nheasy.nh.gov, by calling the Medicaid Service Center at 1-888-901-4999, by visiting a DHHS district office, or through www.healthcare.gov.

Adults who are working and have access to cost-effective insurance through their employer will be covered through their employer-sponsored insurance, with the state paying the employee's premiums and other costs of coverage in the Health Insurance Premium Program. Those who do not have access to cost-effective employer insurance will be enrolled in managed care plans offered by Well Sense and New Hampshire Healthy Families in the Voluntary Bridge to Marketplace Program. (Some individuals may also voluntarily choose to enroll in a qualified health plan on the federal marketplace in 2014 if that option is determined to be cost-effective).

"Implementing the New Hampshire Health Protection Program is an extraordinary effort," said Commissioner Toumpas. "By improving access to health care for those who have been unable to afford it, we have the potential to help improve the health of thousands of people in our State."

NH residents ages 19 to 65 who meet the following financial eligibility guidelines can apply for the NH Health Protection Program: a household of one with a monthly income limit of $1,342; a household of two with a monthly income limit of $1,809; a household of three with a monthly income limit of $2,276; and a household of four with a monthly income limit of $2,743.

DHHS is holding a series of informational sessions around the state during June that will provide additional details about the program. These are informational sessions only, they are not intended to provide application services. All sessions will cover the same information, so people need to attend only once.

Registration is not required for these informational sessions, but is appreciated. To register go to www.surveymonkey.com/s/nh-hpp.

Anyone in need of accommodations for communication access such as interpreters, CART, assistive listening devices, or other auxiliary aids and/or services should make that request at least 3 business days (72 hours) prior to the informational session if you wish to attend to ensure availability. To request these accommodations, call Alex McIntire at 603-224-5566 or amcintire@lkarno.com.

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