Sixty-two percent of bankruptcies filed withing the United States in 2007 were somehow involved with medical expenses, even considering that 80 percent of the people filing for bankruptcy had some sort of medical insurance, according to a study by the American Journal of Medicine. Medical expenses are notoriously pricey, and when you are in a low-income situation, you may live in fear of getting sick or going to see the doctor. However, there are programs to help those in low income situations to help cover expenses so that they can get the quality care that they deserve.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a government program to help those who can't afford medical insurance or pay their medical bills. When applying for Medicaid, a person must have his case examined by a case worker, who will look at the patient's earnings, savings and assets and decide if he qualifies. Medicaid can cover retroactive bills, as well as issue Medicaid cards for future care. Cases are examined every six months to determine continuing eligibility.
State-Run Programs
Your state probably has a few different programs put to help its residents pay for medical expenses. Look to your state's website to see what type of programs they offer. Some states have a state-run medical insurance program, as well as insurance for children and expectant mothers. Some states even offer help for families offered health insurance through a spouse's place of work, but can't afford premiums. All of these can help ease the burden on a low-income family.
Walk-In Free Clinics
Most cities offer free walk-in clinics run by volunteer health care providers. These clinics treat anyone, without asking if you have the ability to pay. Many of these clinics ask for a small donation in lieu of compensation for medical care.
Negotiating with Doctors
Often doctors will give discounts to patients that they know are dealing with financial crisis and low income. Clinics and doctors always give discounts to insurance companies for services, so to call to ask if they can give you a small discount on your bills might help. You could also mention upfront that you are a low-income family before receiving the treatment, and in some cases a doctor or hospital will take a percentage off to help a family in need.
Boutique Health Care
In recent years, there has been a move toward boutique-style health care, which is many different doctors offering a variety of services under one roof. While boutique health care isn't traditionally inexpensive, companies like Qliance are making it affordable to be a member of a boutique group, which employs nurse practitioners in lieu of doctors to keep costs down. Members can pay around $49 a month and receive all of the necessary, basic health care that they need, like check-ups, immunizations and referrals.
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