Uninsured Benefits

Millions of people skip routine medical care every year rather than generate a pile of medical bills they cannot pay. According to Covertheuninsured.org, more than 50 million Americans lack insurance and most are part of a working family. Many people are not aware that there are programs to help cover the costs of health care. Several state and federal programs provide uninsured benefits at little to no cost for individuals that meet the requirements.

Medicaid

• The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services report that Medicaid is available for individuals and families that meet eligibility standards, as recognized by federal and state law. Medicaid is a state administered program and requirements for coverage vary depending on the state's guidelines. Common considerations include age, disability level, income level and U.S. citizenship status. Special rules apply for disabled children living at home with parents and seniors living in nursing homes.

CHIP

• CHIP provides health insurance for many income levels.

  The Children's Health Insurance Plan provides health care services for children up to 19 years old. Each state determines their own specific guidelines for uninsured medical benefits, but the federal government helps finance the services provided. CHP covers dental care, eye exams, immunizations and regular check-ups for qualifying families. According to InsureKidsNow.gov, every state and U.S. territory operates a CHIP program in partnership with the federal government. Applying for the Children's Health Insurance Program is free and confidential. You can apply online or request an application packet via your mail service.

Community Health Centers

• The National Association of Community Health Centers provides vital primary care services to the uninsured and under-insured. Spread across 50 states and U.S. territories, Community Health Centers maintain an open-door policy, providing treatment regardless of income or insurance coverage. Charges are on a sliding scale and depend on the individual's income level and ability to pay. Contact your local Community Health Center to see if you qualify for uninsured medical benefits.

Free Clinics

• Founded in 2001, the National Association of Free Clinics, or NAFC, consists of medical volunteers that provide services for the uninsured. The National Association of Free Clinics website reports that doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, therapists and nurse practitioners make up the NAFC volunteer-based work force. Behavioral health services are also available for uninsured and economically disadvantaged individuals. The NAFC also offers a pharmacy discount card honored at over 59,000 pharmacies. In addition, the NAFC pharmacy card covers lab and imaging services provided at substantially discounted prices.

Prescription Programs

• Some pharmacies offer payment plans for medications.

  Prescription programs help individuals and families obtain access to necessary medications such as antibiotics, pain medicine, diabetic supplies and anti-depressant medication. State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs utilize state funds to pay a portion of the cost for qualifying member's medications. Some private companies, such as Kroger, Giant Eagle, Wal-Mart and Kmart, also offer low-cost prescription programs.