Proudly Providing Rensselaer Medicare Solutions
Located in eastern New York, Rensselaer County is a unique blend of industrial history and modern technology, stretching from the banks of the Hudson River to the Taconic Mountains.
A Brief History
The county’s history is deeply intertwined with the early development of the United States:
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Dutch Roots: The area was originally part of the Rensselaerwyck manor, a massive feudal-style estate established in 1630 by Kiliaen van Rensselaer for the Dutch West India Company.
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Revolutionary Impact: The Battle of Bennington (1777), a turning point in the Revolutionary War, actually took place within the county in the Town of Hoosick. This victory significantly weakened British forces before their surrender at Saratoga.
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The Industrial Revolution: Troy, the county seat, became known as the “Collar City” due to its massive shirt and detachable collar industry. The area was also a powerhouse in iron production; the iron plates for the famous Civil War battleship, the USS Monitor, were manufactured here.
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Cultural Icons: The county claims several American “firsts.” It is the home of “Uncle Sam” (Samuel Wilson, a meat packer from Troy) and the site where the song “Yankee Doodle” was reportedly composed at Fort Crailo. Additionally, the first degree-granting engineering school in the English-speaking world, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI), was founded here in 1824.
Medicare in Rensselaer County
For the over 26,000 seniors and individuals with disabilities living in the county, Medicare serves as a critical healthcare foundation. Residents have access to both federal and local support systems:
Coverage Options
Residents can choose between Original Medicare (Parts A and B) or private Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans.
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Medicare Advantage: In 2026, there are approximately 35 Advantage plans available in the county. Over half of these are offered with a $0 monthly premium, making them a popular choice for those looking to bundle dental, vision, and hearing coverage.
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Specialized Support: There are over 20 Special Needs Plans (SNPs) designed specifically for residents who are “dual-eligible” (qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid) or have chronic health conditions.
Local Resources for Help
Navigating Medicare can be complex, but Rensselaer County offers several localized assistance programs:
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HIICAP (Health Insurance Information, Counseling and Assistance Program): This is a free, state-sponsored service provided through the Rensselaer County Department for the Aging. Trained counselors help residents compare plans, understand their bills, and apply for financial assistance.
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Medicare Savings Programs (MSP): For low-income residents, New York State offers programs that pay for Part B premiums and, in some cases, deductibles and co-pays.
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EPIC (Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage): This is a New York-specific program that helps seniors with the cost of their prescription drugs, acting as a secondary payer to Medicare Part D.
The Rensselaer County Department for the Aging also operates five senior centers (located in Troy, East Greenbush, Hoosick Falls, Grafton, and Schodack) that provide information and community health clinics for Medicare beneficiaries.