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New York State

These resources – like the public health crisis itself – are constantly evolving and are only current as to the date of publication. This page was last updated on July 20, 2020.

We recommend that you monitor this site, as well as the sites referenced in these resources, for updates and changes as we expect the situation and solutions to change over the coming weeks and months. For information on specific programs, we encourage you to visit the websites of the organizations or government entities that are responsible for the relief.

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Description of Program and Relief

Department of Financial Services Announces Waiver of Costs for Mental Health Services for Frontline Essential Workers and Emotional Support Hotline for Frontline Essential Health Workers

The Department of Financial Services (DFS) will require New York State-regulated health insurers to waive cost-sharing, including deductibles, copayments and coinsurance, for in-network mental health services for New York's frontline essential workers during COVID-19. DFS will also issue an emergency regulation to prohibit insurers from imposing cost-sharing for telehealth and in-person mental health services rendered by in-network providers on an outpatient basis to frontline essential workers eligible to be tested at one of the State's drive through or walk in COVID-19 testing sites.

The state is also partnering with the Kate Spade New York Foundation and Crisis Text Line to provide a 24/7 emotional support service for frontline health care workers. Those workers can text NYFRONTLINE to 741-741 to access these emotional support services.

Government or Lead Agency

New York State Department of Financial Services

Dates Available

May 1, 2020

Contact for More Information

The DFS Hotline is available Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM (local calls can be made to (212) 480-6400 or (518) 474-6600). Individuals can also email DFS at consumers@dfs.ny.gov.

List of Additional Information

Press release announcing the program can be found here:

https://www.dfs.ny.gov/reports_and_publications/press_releases/pr202005011https://www.dfs.ny.gov/press_releases/pr202005021


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