No Health Insurance

By: EconomyWatch Content   Date: 16 February 2010

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In times when every new reform to control increasing healthcare costs is falling on its face, living with no health insurance is the biggest mistake to commit. Though you may have several reasons for not taking insurance, such as shortage of finances and insurers denying cover, living without insurance can, nevertheless, throw uncomfortable surprises at you.

 

So what to do when circumstances keep you away from taking health insurance? Let’s have a look at some of the possible solutions.

Coping with No Health Insurance

Fortunately with government-aided and non-profit organization-backed programs, there are ways to cope with no health insurance. Some options include:

 

  • Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA): In case of recent unemployment, one can contact COBRA administration to continue with the employers’ insurance. The payments, however, are to be borne completely by the insured. Contact your state Department of Labor to know about COBRA and the procedure for enrolment.
  • CHIP: Thestate-sponsored Child Health Insurance Program (CHIP) covers your children even if you have an income greater than what is eligible for Medicare. Getting your kids insured can reduce a lot of financial strain that can unsettle you in case you become jobless.
  • Look for prescription assistance: Medicines alone contribute to a major portion of healthcare expenses. However, there are many dedicated organizations, such as Partnership for Prescription Assistance, that assist people with medicines. Inquire about such groups in your locality.
  • Financial assistance for particular diseases: There are many organizations that assist people with particular kinds of diseases. Therefore, inquire about organizations, such as Heart Support of America, American Kidney Fund and The Access Project, for special assistance.
  • Find free clinics: There are many government-funded free clinics that offer free care in urban as well as rural areas. Locate such centers and approach them for medical assistance.

 

Although these facilities are very helpful, one cannot rely on them completely. Therefore, one must get oneself a health insurance plan, once the finances are sorted. Living with no health insurance for long is a recipe for financial disaster that can drain your savings in a jiffy. So, buy a health insurance today and get that much needed peace of mind.

 


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