What’s the Enrollment Process Like for the WTC Health Program?
The first step to both receiving medical care for your covered condition AND filing a VCF claim is to enroll in the WTC Health Program. The enrollment process is simple and links to the application and every step are available at our WTC Heath Program Page.
STEP 1
Submit an application. You can do this online or via paper application. The online form will ask where you were on 9/11 or during the WTC clean-up and whether you’re feeling any physical or mental health symptoms you believe might be 9/11 related. Don’t worry if you can’t prove they are. That responsibility does not fall on you. Just be as truthful as you can.
STEP 2
Send your supporting documentation, either by submitting it online or sending it via mail. For students, this can be a school transcript and letter confirming your attendance. Call 311 (inside NYC) or 718-935-2200 (Outside NYC) for more information on how to receive a free copy of your transcript.
You may also use affidavits from witnesses who can confirm your presence downtown. More information about supporting documentation is available on the WTC Health Program’s “Supporting Documentation” page.
STEP 3
As soon as all of your documentation is ready, the program will begin to process your application. The amount of time this takes can vary depending on the situation. At that point three things can happen:
If the application is “approved,” congratulations! You’re in! A welcome letter will explain yours next steps.
If the application is “suspended,” that means you may have sent incomplete documentation. Contact the program to find out more.
If the application is “denied,” the program has determined that you don’t meet the eligibility criteria. If you believe this was in error, don’t worry! They will send you a packet on how to appeal the decision.
Here’s a quick flowchart from the program:
STEP 4
Once you’ve successfully enrolled in the program, you’ll need to schedule your screening appointment. This is where you’ll speak to doctors about the conditions you need care for and get your program certifications.
Above all, be patient.
This process can be slow, especially during periods in which the programs are getting a lot of media attention. The payoff is worth it. Not only will you be able to get care for your 9/11-related conditions at no cost, but you’ll have completed the first step towards filing a VCF claim in the process.