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I Need Medical Coverage & Can't Work Because of Medical Problems

People unable to work not only experience difficulties in meeting financial obligations but also lack the resources to provide for needed medical care. When medical problems are the reason a person can't work, having health insurance options becomes all the more important. Fortunately, programs are available to assist people with getting the medical care they need when financial resources are lacking.

  1. Medicaid

    • People unable to work often have limited incomes, which is a pre-qualification for Medicaid health coverage. Through federal and state funding, Medicaid pays for medical care for people unable to afford health coverage. Eligibility requirements vary from state to state in terms of income-level guidelines and other qualifying conditions. Once approved, Medicaid recipients may have to make small co-payments for doctor's visits and other medical services. Medicaid then pays doctors and providers directly for services received. Applicants can apply for Medicaid assistance through their local department of health and human services.

    Medicare

    • People who experience medical problems to the point where they're unable to work may qualify for Medicare coverage under the Social Security disability program. Though Medicare was designed to provide medical coverage for people who reach retirement age, people under 65 can qualify if a disabling condition exists. Social Security disability benefits provide monthly cash allowances in cases where a disabling condition prevents a person from working. Once approved for Social Security disability, recipients automatically become eligible for Medicare health coverage after 24 months. The disability qualification process can take anywhere from six months to two years, but it is a necessary first step to qualify for Medicare benefits for people under 65.

    Health Care for the Homeless Program

    • There is a direct correlation between poor health and homelessness rates, according to the National Coalition for the Homeless. People unable to work due to medical problems can eventually deplete their resources to the point where housing becomes unaffordable. To address this, the federal government offers primary health care for people affected by homelessness. The Health Care for the Homeless Program provides a range of health services in addition to primary health care, some of which include emergency care, substance abuse services and mental health treatment. Eligible applicants for grant funding include private nonprofit organizations as well as state and local governments. People affected by homelessness can apply for medical care assistance through a participating provider.

    CHIP

    • In addition to their individual medical needs, people unable to work may require health care coverage for dependent children. The Children's Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, is a federally funded program that provides for the basic health care needs of children. CHIP attempts to fill the eligibility gap in cases where a parent's income level makes private coverage unaffordable yet still exceeds eligibility requirements for state Medicaid programs. Each state determines eligibility guidelines for CHIP coverage and also determines what types of services are covered under the program. Applicants can apply through their local department of health and human services.

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