The uninsured can find help, with patience and paperwork.
There are a number of resources designed specifically for helping the uninsured. Some insurance plans can be expensive and limited in duration and coverage options. The uninsured do have options available for obtaining needed care either free or at significantly reduced rates based on their ability to pay. Applying for coverage can require an extensive amount of paperwork, including financial information and a bit of wait-time for approval, but are worth the effort.
For Those In Immediate Need
Emergency rooms must treat those in medical danger, regardless of ability to pay.
If you become ill or injured and need to see a doctor immediately, do not hesitate to go to the nearest hospital's emergency room. Federal law, under the Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) ensures that anyone going to an emergency room for treatment must be screened and their condition stabilized, regardless of the patient's ability to pay.
The National Health Care Safety Net not only includes emergency rooms, but some community health centers, teaching hospitals and public hospitals. This resource is available to people who need to be seen by a doctor but are not in an emergency or life-threatening situation and are unable to obtain medical services elsewhere.
Check These Resources
Personal Physician -- Your personal physician will sometimes be willing to work with you if you no longer have insurance and may even give you a reduced rate for office visits.
Health Care Clinics -- You may be able to find centers that are sponsored and regulated by the Federal Government that are designed to provide primary services and preventative dental care to people on a sliding scale based on income. Find one in your area at: findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.
Community Health Screenings -- Free screenings are usually scheduled on certain days of the month to check for diabetes, high blood pressure and other conditions. There are national organizations such as the American Heart Association, The Red Cross or the American Cancer Society, which sponsors the Mammovan to screen for breast cancer.
Planned Parenthood -- These centers operate with the help of not only public donations but state funding as well. Typically, they operate on a sliding fee scale with charges based on income. Planned Parenthood is not only for expectant women, but it also provides testing and treatment for sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) for men and women.
Discount Programs
Generally, continuing coverage is available to employees who have been subjected to layoff, but that coverage can be cost-prohibitive for many people. Private plans are usually costly as well, but there are several discount plans that will provide medical, vision and dental care at reasonable rates.
Low-cost or free health care options can be found on coverageforall.org. The U.S. Uninsured Help line can be accessed by calling 800-234-1317, where you can speak with a live operator any time, 24-hours a day, seven days a week. This help line will assist in finding free or low-cost health care in your area. You will also find a map to help you find coverage in your area by visiting http://www.coverageforall.org/our_services.htm#apps.
For prescription drugs, many drug companies supply free drugs, on a limited basis, which can be 90 days to one year. To take advantage of this option, it will be necessary to complete a request form on the drug company's website, supply proof of income and have your doctor write the prescription.
Tags: your area, based income, dental care, emergency room, find help
