There are several programs available for Maryland adults seeking health insurance.
More than 60 percent of Americans have health insurance through an employer, but many others must find it from other sources. As premiums continue to rise, many Americans find they cannot afford a private health insurance program. Maryland adults who cannot afford insurance on their own or who cannot qualify may be eligible for other low-cost plans.
Primary Adult Care
Maryland's Primary Adult Care Program is designed for state residents over age 19 who meets certain income guidelines, such as making more than 116 percent of the federal poverty guideline. The program allows for free visits to a family doctor, an outpatient psychiatrist or mental health professional, and either discounted or free prescription drugs. The goal of the program is help adults take care of problems before they become urgent or more expensive. The program does not cover hospital stays, visits to the emergency room or specialized care.
The program covers family planning services for women except for tubal ligation.
If you qualify for Medicare, you will not be eligible for the program.
dhmh.state.md.us/mma/pac.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a state-sponsored program that pays for the medical bills of low-income adults who cannot afford medical care otherwise. Adults who have private insurance can still qualify for Medicaid if they meet certain guidelines. They will have to present their insurance card and their Medicaid card when visiting the doctor. Medicaid is offered to adults who are disabled or who are 65 and older or under the age of 21. Low-income pregnant women are eligible for Medicaid, as are those who are caring for a child at home.
To apply for Medicaid, contact your local department of social services.
dhmh.state.md.us/mma/Eligibility/MAelig-2009Q&A.html.
Maryland Health Insurance Plan
Unlike the other programs, the Maryland Health Insurance Plan is administered by the private health insurance companies of CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield and CareFirst BlueChoice Inc. A state-appointed board of directors supervises the plan.
Adults eligible for the plan must have a qualifying medical condition and have been denied insurance for the past six months because of medical reasons. Also eligible are those adults who have health insurance that does not cover treatment for a specific medical condition or has full insurance that costs more than the Maryland Health Insurance Plan because of the medical condition.
Adults experiencing a gap in health insurance because of relocating to Maryland or have lost their insurance through their employer are also eligible.
The board of directors sets the premium every year. Those enrolled may choose from an HMO, PPO (preferred provider) or high-deductible health plan. Low-income adults may be eligible for reduced premiums and lower out-of-pocket fees through a program called MHIP+.
marylandhealthinsuranceplan.state.md.us
Tags: cannot afford, health insurance, health insurance, Health Insurance Plan, Insurance Plan, Maryland Health
