On July 10, 2026, amidst upcoming adjustments to various healthcare insurance policies, many people are concerned about how their eligibility for Medicaid might be affected. The Flushing Business Improvement District (BID) will be hosting the “2026 Health Fair” on July 18 at the intersection of 40th Road and Prince Street in Flushing, offering free consultations on insurance policies, health screenings, and access to medical resources.
The Executive Director of the Flushing BID, Yu Dian-song, announced on July 9 that the event will feature dozens of booths from healthcare providers such as Healthfirst, EmblemHealth, Fidelis Care, UnitedHealthcare, Northwell Health, Queens Hospital Center, Rendr, and William F. Ryan Community Health Center. They will provide the latest information on health insurance policies, healthcare resources, health education materials, and health checks.
Council Member Huang Min-yi urged residents to actively participate in the health fair, seize the opportunity to engage with various insurance companies on-site, and acquire the most suitable healthcare insurance plans and practical health information for themselves.
During the press conference, it was introduced that there will be significant changes in federal healthcare policies. Starting January 1, 2027, adults aged 19 to 64 applying for or renewing Medicaid coverage may face new work requirements, where they must demonstrate at least 20 hours per week (80 hours per month) of work, education, vocational training, or volunteer service.
Additionally, starting on the same date, the eligibility review for adult Medicaid holders aged 19 to 64 will change from once a year to every six months.
The organizers reminded residents needing to renew their Medicaid to plan ahead, such as arranging volunteer services or preparing relevant work or school documents, to avoid jeopardizing their future healthcare coverage.
As of July 1, 2026, New York State has officially discontinued the “Essential Plan 5”. This plan was previously available to residents with household incomes ranging from 200% to 250% of the federal poverty line. They will now need to switch to the affordable healthcare plans provided by the New York State of Health insurance marketplace, commonly known as “Obamacare.”
Huang Jing-ting, Director of Medical Services Promotion and Community Relations at the William F. Ryan Community Health Center, stated that even if temporarily without insurance, the health center offers services on a sliding fee scale based on income. Medical fees are determined according to household income, ranging from approximately $20 to $80 at the lowest.
The event will also feature free blood pressure measurement, health education sessions, fun activities for children, and giveaways of eco-friendly water bottles, tote bags, crayons, and other souvenirs.
Event Details: Date: July 18 (Saturday) from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM; Location: Intersection of 40th Road and Prince Street, Flushing.