How to Get Health Insurance in Maryland

Marylanders have many health insurance options. You can work with an agent or compare and apply for different health insurance plans online. If you have financial need, no ability to participate in an employer-sponsored plan or a pre-existing condition that prevents you from obtaining commercial coverage, the state of Maryland may assist in providing you with health insurance.

Instructions

• 1

  Find an insurance agent with a license to sell in Maryland. You can find an agent through a search on the National Association of Health Underwriters' website. An agent will facilitate the search and application process for you to obtain health insurance.

• 2

  Visit an online website that connects you with multiple health insurance plans, such as ehealthinsurance. Input your Maryland zip code and answer a few basic questions on the website and several quotes will display for you to compare. You will have the option to apply online for the plans you select.

• 3

  Apply in person for the Maryland Medical Assistance (Medicaid) Program at your local Department of Social Services. Medicaid may be available if you meet criteria such as low income and having no options for coverage through an employer, COBRA or other government program. You can also call 1-800-456-8900 to request an application for the Maryland Medical Assistance for Families program. Representatives online or in-person will walk you through the application process.

• 4

  Apply for the Maryland Health Insurance Plan (MHIP) if you are a Maryland resident who is unable to obtain health insurance because of a pre-existing condition, have recently lost employer-sponsored coverage or have been uninsured for six or more months. Download the application from the MHIP website, complete it and mail to the address listed on the website and the application. The state will not accept faxed applications.

• 5

  Visit the websites of Carefirst Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, United Healthcare and other large carriers who offer individual health insurance policies in Maryland. After entering your zip code and answering a brief questionnaire, these websites allow you to get preliminary premium quotes, compare different plans and apply directly online.