CANTON – St. Lawrence County residents looking to sign up for health insurance under the New York Health Exchange have until March 31.

Coverage for those signing up between now and the deadline would begin in mid April.

People may sign up for coverage by visiting https://nystateofhealth.ny.gov/.

To date, 666,397 New Yorkers have purchased insurance through the exchange. Many residents can receive income-based subsidies by purchasing coverage through the state program.

Individuals who choose not to buy coverage through the health exchange, may purchase insurance directly from providers at anytime, but would not be eligible for subsidies.

Certain life changing events, may also allow individuals to sign up for insurance on the health exchange beyond March 31. Anyone in need of assistance may contact one of the agencies that have professionals trained to help guide people through the process.

In St. Lawrence County professional help can be found at:

• ACR in Canton, 101 Main Street, Canton, 13617, 386-4493

• Community Health Center in Canton, 4 Commerce Lane, Canton, 13617, 386 – 8191

• St. Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce, 101 Main Street Canton, 13617, 386-4000.

• Health Initiative, 439 New York 56, Potsdam, 13676, 261-4760

Additional assistance is available online at http://www.nystateofhealth.ny.gov/