Healthfirst is a not-for-profit health insurance company founded more than 30 years ago by leading hospital systems in downstate New York. With over 2 million members and more than 6,000 employees, it is one of New York's largest not-for-profit health insurers. Its operations are supported by a network of 40,000+ providers and 80+ hospitals, with 28 community offices across its service area.
The company offers a range of health plans designed for underserved and publicly insured populations, including Medicaid, Medicare Advantage, long-term care, Qualified Health Plans, and Essential Plans. Coverage spans New York City, Long Island, and Westchester, Sullivan, Orange, and Rockland counties.
As a not-for-profit, Healthfirst structures its model around partnerships with hospitals, health systems, and physicians, with the stated aim of prioritizing member health outcomes over profit. Its founding by hospital systems reflects an organizational philosophy oriented toward community health rather than shareholder returns.
