MetroPlusHealth is deepening its commitment to Staten Island with the recent opening of a second community office, responding to reduced coverage options from for-profit insurers and increasing affordability challenges citywide. The new office, found at 2656 Hylan Blvd in New Dorp Plaza, provides expanded support and on-site resources to address the borough’s growing health care needs.
Greater Demand for Accessible, Affordable Health Care
Rising health care costs and expiring Affordable Care Act subsidies are making it harder for many locals to maintain coverage. In contrast to the trend, MetroPlusHealth is increasing its local presence. This City-supported nonprofit health plan is affirming its ongoing dedication to Staten Island by ensuring access to high-quality and affordable care for residents.
“Opening a second Staten Island community office is a significant milestone,” said Dr. Talya Schwartz, Chief Executive Officer of MetroPlusHealth. “Over the past two years, our mobile unit has addressed urgent health needs in this neighborhood. Now, our presence here becomes permanent, serving as a hub for wellness and medical support. This office demonstrates our promise to provide cost-effective, quality care and enables the community to take an active role in their health.”
Community Leaders Celebrate the New Location
The November 18th grand opening featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony with attendance from local dignitaries such as Dr. Ginny Mantello of the Staten Island Borough President’s Office, Council Member Frank Morano, Ian Yanda representing Assemblyman Michael Tannousis, John Rinaudo from Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis’ office, and Etsio Flores of Make the Road. Their presence highlighted the crucial role of expanded local health resources as families face mounting costs.
Eight Years of Community Growth and Support
MetroPlusHealth’s history in Staten Island dates back to 2017 with its first community office, which has maintained consistent double-digit annual growth fueled by strong demand and a provider network that covers all acute-care hospitals in the borough. The organization also operates a pair of mobile units and a specialized Medicare mobile unit to deliver services directly in neighborhoods.
In addition to health coverage, MetroPlusHealth is committed to community partnerships, with the Staten Island team contributing to food and coat drives, toy giveaways, turkey distributions, and Back-to-School events in collaboration with elected officials and nonprofits.
Serving Residents Seven Days a Week
The new location provides services every day of the week as a central site for information, enrollment, and community support. Residents can consult in-person coordinators regarding plan selection, benefits, wellness rewards, and guidance through the enrollment process.
MetroPlusHealth also aims to tackle Staten Island’s most urgent health issues. The borough ranks among the nation’s top for opioid abuse and continues to experience shortages in mental health provision. It reports higher-than-average rates of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Weekly visits by community-based partners, such as the NYPD, FDNY, and the Pregnancy Care Center, will connect residents directly with essential resources.
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