Essential Plan Cooling Program Offers Free Air Conditioners to Eligible Individuals
4/21/2026
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Posted by Provider Relations
To help vulnerable individuals who struggle with extreme heat, NY State of Health is again offering free air conditioners through its Essential Plan Cooling Program.
The program runs from April 15, 2026, to August 31, 2026, or until supplies run out.
During the summer, patients living in excessive heat have a higher risk of death and hospitalization from chronic conditions. By having A/C units installed in their homes, the program can improve health outcomes and prevent emergency visits and hospitalizations.
Please notify your patients currently enrolled in the Essential Plan that they may be eligible if they have one of these health conditions:
- Asthma
- Cardiovascular disease (heart disease)
- Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
- Chronic migraine
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Diabetes
- Disability
- End-stage kidney disease (ESKD)
- Epilepsy
- Hypertension
- History of stroke
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Severe obesity (Class III / morbid obesity)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Pregnancy and postpartum
- Serious mental illness
Patients can apply online by scanning the QR code at left or accessing the online application.