Do You Need Affordable Healthcare? 7 Resources You Should Know

Healthcare costs are rising, and individuals and families need affordable healthcare options that can provide quality care without breaking the bank. Whether you're looking for preventive care, basic medical coverage or assistance programs, help is out there.

You have options when it comes to caring for yourself and your loved ones. Here are 7 free or reduced-cost healthcare options that everyone should know.

1. Community Health Clinics
   Community health clinics are an excellent resource to help with rising healthcare costs. These clinics offer a wide range of services including routine checkups, vaccinations, screenings and basic treatment for minor illnesses. Many community health clinics operate on a sliding fee scale, which means the cost of care is based on your income level. These clinics often collaborate with local hospitals and medical professionals, ensuring you receive healthcare at an affordable price. Find low-cost medical clinics near you with the Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA)’s Find a Health Center tool.
2. Telehealth Services
   Telehealth has gained popularity in recent years, largely because it provides a convenient alternative to in-person doctor visits. Telehealth or telemedicine platforms offer virtual consultations with licensed healthcare professionals. These services are particularly useful for non-emergency medical issues, routine checkups and follow-up appointments. Telemedicine can save you time and transportation costs, making it an excellent option if you have limited mobility or live in a remote area. You can access telehealth services with your free Assurance Wireless smartphone.
3. Prescription Assistance Programs
   If you need medication, prescription assistance programs can be a valuable resource. Many pharmaceutical companies and non-profit organizations offer programs that provide discounted or free medications to individuals who meet specific income criteria. These programs can reduce the financial burden of medicine, ensuring you can access the treatments you need without the high cost. Just search “prescription assistance programs” from your Assurance Wireless phone to find resources for you.
4. Child Enrollment Programs
   Health insurance plans don’t always cover children, which can make healthcare more difficult. Luckily, you can enroll your children into programs to get them coverage if they are not eligible for coverage with your current insurance plan, or if the cost of coverage is simply too high. Kidshealth.org provides a helpful guide for finding affordable care for children.
5. Preventive Care and Wellness Programs
   Prevention is key to maintaining good health and reducing healthcare expenses in the long run. Many community organizations and healthcare providers offer low-cost or free preventive care and wellness programs. These programs often include screenings, vaccinations, educational workshops and lifestyle counseling. By actively participating in these initiatives, you can take proactive steps toward a healthier life while keeping healthcare costs in check. Find out where to get inexpensive vaccinations like flu shots each year by visiting the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)’s Get Vaccinated page.
   
   Healthcare is not out of reach, even if you're on a tight budget. By exploring affordable healthcare options such as community health clinics, telemedicine services, prescription assistance programs and preventive care initiatives, you can more easily access the healthcare you and your loved ones need.
6. Medicaid
   Medicaid is a federal program designed to provide affordable health insurance to low-income adults, pregnant women, elderly folks, people with disabilities and children. However, although it is a national program, each state handles its own processes and requirements for enrollment. It is important to check with your state’s Medicaid office to see if you’re eligible.
   
   Medicaid generally does not have premiums or deductibles, which helps to keep the coverage cost low, but some states do utilize these fees or others, based on income. This means depending on where you live, if you earn more than a certain amount in annual income, you may have some out-of-pocket costs.
   
   At a minimum, all state Medicaid programs must cover inpatient and outpatient hospital care and doctor visits, though coverage for specific treatments, tests and therapies varies. In addition, Medicaid beneficiaries who are also eligible for Medicare can enroll in both programs to receive more comprehensive health coverage. Medicaid can help cover services that Original Medicare does not.
   
   To enroll in Medicaid or check your eligibility, contact your state’s Medicaid agency, apply through the Health Insurance Marketplace or speak with a Medicaid representative.
7. Medicare
   Medicare provides health insurance to people who are 65 years old or older, as well as some people who are younger living with certain disabilities or End-Stage Renal Disease. It is typically a more affordable health insurance option after retiring than purchasing private health insurance. Run by the federal government, Medicare—also known as Original Medicare—has two parts: Part A and Part B. Part A covers hospital insurance, such as inpatient surgery and stays in a hospital. Part B covers medical insurance, such as doctor visits and lab work.
   
   Both Part A and Part B have their own premiums and deductibles, though the majority of people are eligible for premium-free Part A coverage. This means they may not have to pay any premiums to keep their Part A coverage active.
   
   Another Medicare option is Medicare Advantage, also known as Part C. Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies and offer all the same benefits as Original Medicare at minimum, though they often include additional benefits as well. These extras can include prescription drug coverage and dental, vision, and hearing services. Some of these plans require an additional premium, but others may be available at no additional cost.
   
   Medicare Advantage plans feature maximum out-of-pocket costs, which limit the amount you would spend each year on covered care. This spending cap along with additional coverages can make Medicare Advantage an attractive option for Medicare beneficiaries. To enroll in a plan, reach out to a trusted and licensed agent or broker for further information about the plans available in your area that could fit your healthcare needs.

Finding affordable healthcare is a necessity today, and cell phone service can help you access these resources. See if you qualify for Assurance Wireless free cell service.

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