Outside the annual open enrollment period (February 1-October 31), you may qualify to buy or change your health insurance coverage if you experience certain life events, within 60 days in most cases. For Medicare, refer to our Medicare Advantage Timeline for specifics on when you may switch your Medicare coverage.

Life Events include: getting pregnant, having a baby, adopting a baby, change in marital status, moving, losing coverage from your employer, or aging off of a parent’s health plan.

By Phone: For an immediate response, call the number on your Member Card for personalized care. Don't have your card handy? Contact numbers are available here.

When you can buy or change your health insurance all depends on the plan you qualify for.

In certain counties, Facilitated Enrollers are available by appointment. To schedule yours, call 1-888-576-6542.

If you're buying or renewing health insurance, you should ask four questions before selecting a plan:​

Make sure your medications are covered by the insurer. You can review the prescription drug lists covered by our plans at ExcellusBCBS.com

Ask if the plan covers emergency care anywhere in the world. You may also want to inquire as to whether the plan has a telemedicine program that provides 24/7 access to a doctor by phone or video chat when you have a minor health issue and can't see your physician.

You could qualify for the Essential Plan for $0 a month based on your age, household income and size, and immigration status. Or, you may be eligible for other NYS-sponsored plans or subsidies. Call Excellus BCBS at 1-888-576-6542 to see if you qualify.

Our dental plans for individuals and families include coverage for preventive services like cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants, routine services such as exams, x-rays and fillings as well as coverage for more comprehensive care like select crowns and adult root canals.