FAQs

What is WNYhelpnet.ORG?
WNYhelpnet.ORG, a program of the Western New York Public Health Alliance, Inc. an internet-based database of WNY medical, healthcare coverage and senior and long term care providers, with a focus on programs that offer free, low-cost and sliding fee scale services. The Western New York Public Health Alliance is a not-for-profit agency that leads the development of public and private partnerships and collaborations to efficiently coordinate resources for improving the health status and safety of populations in our western New York region through public health surveillance, education, prevention and intervention.

How is WNYhelpnet.ORG connected to the Western New York Public Health Alliance, Inc.?
WNYhelpnet.ORG is a program of the Western New York Public Health Alliance, Inc. WNYhelpnet .org is an on-line directory of western New York medical, New York State subsidized health insurance programs, senior and long term care services. This free-access site was created to help individuals who lack health insurance or financial ability to pay for health care services find the programs and services they need for free or on a sliding fee scale.

How is WNYhelpnet.ORG able to reduce access barriers in obtaining free or reduced cost services?
WNYhelpnet.ORG is used by healthcare providers in facilities such as community service organizations, hospital emergency department, and public health systems to link individuals in need to the nearest available service. These services include state subsidized health insurance programs such as Medicaid, Child Health Plus, Family Health Plus, and Healthy NY.

Can individuals use WNYhelpnet.ORG or is this site for the exclusive use of healthcare agencies?
WNYhelpnet.ORG is available to both healthcare organizations and the general public.

What is a sliding fee scale?
A sliding fee scale is a cost for a service based on an individual or family’s ability to pay. It often is based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines. A sliding fee scale often starts at $0.

What is a Reduced Fee For Care Program?
A Reduced Fee for Care Program helps individuals and families apply for state subsidized health insurance (such as Child and Family Health Plus) before issuing a sliding fee scale.

What is a Charity Care Program?
Some hospitals and clinics have Charity Care Programs for the uninsured. Individuals and families must apply for this income-based program.