Adding to the increasing percentage of the unemployed in the United States are the numbers of people who go without health care. With affordable health coverage an oft-mentioned subject of politicians but seemingly few options for low-income Americans, many aren't sure where to turn. Yet reduced-cost health care plans and subsidized programs do exist, and the uninsured are urged to purchase at least some coverage to safeguard themselves and their families.
Significance
A recent "ABC News" poll showing that over half of Americans are worried about how they'll pay for health care and politicians calling for reforms to the system remind us that affordable health coverage is a major preoccupation. Forty-six million uninsured Americans struggle to pay for doctors' visits, hospital care and medicine, and risk financial ruin in the event of a serious illness or accident.
Individuals and families with limited funds may feel that they have no options when it comes to health care, but online research, local agencies and clinics can yield reasonably priced plans regardless of income.
Types
Several reduced-cost health care options exist across the United States, including state Medicaid programs, free or low-cost health clinics and traditional insurance companies with affordable coverage.
Each state has Medicaid, a government-funded program offered to qualifying low-income individuals and families, which breaks down insurance into lower payments than standard insurance plans. Applications are available at local social services offices where you can find information about the specific Medicaid requirements in your state.
Traditional health care plans can also be found at lower rates. As long as you see a doctor participating in your insurance plan, out-of-pocket co-payments will be lower, as the insurance company covers more. Low-cost plans often have deductibles starting at about $2,000. Local insurance agencies can also help choose affordable health insurance for you or your family, and agents will work to find plans on a case-by-case basis.
Another option for those truly strapped for cash are free or low-cost community health clinics, found in areas throughout the country. These locally run health clinics are often overcrowded and underfunded but provide basic care and medicine for folks with limited incomes and no health insurance.
Geography
A number of states are currently deliberating as to provide their own reasonably priced health care and insurance, and are working on their own reforms. Information on affordable health care near you can be found at healthinsurance.org/states.lasso.
Considerations
Health insurance experts advise that having some health insurance is better than none, even if the plan you can afford doesn't include all types of coverage.
Alternative or supplementary plans, such as short-term health insurance or accident plans, can also be beneficial options for those who choose not to buy a traditional plan. Temporary health coverage is ideal for those who are in between insurance or are about to lose their coverage, while low-cost accident plans starting at around $25 per month cover some ambulance and hospital fees in the event of a serious accident.
Benefits
Affordable health care would help free millions of Americans from the burden of being uninsured and unhealthy. These people could experience enormous relief knowing that a safety net exists to help protect and care for them in times of illness and emergency.
Providing more reasonably priced health care has huge potential to improve the national economy as well, allowing citizens and companies to funnel their money into jobs and industries rather than the current exorbitant cost of health coverage.
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