Recent data states that 27.1 million US Americans are uninsured (National Health Interview Survey.) It’s common knowledge that our healthcare system is broken and often inaccessible for many. In fact, I was uninsured for 5.5 years and had to learn how to get access to affordable healthcare that didn't break my budget.
Here's 6 tips for how to navigate the healthcare system while being uninsured:
1. Find a non profit health clinic. They are often called Community Health Center (CHC) or a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC). They have a commitment to provide accessible and affordable healthcare, and typically offer free or sliding scale services based on your income.
How I utilized this tip:
I was able to have a PCP and Gyne at my local FQHC. I was provided with amazing care and given the needed referrals to see specialists and any imaging that I needed like ultrasounds and MRIs.
2. See what programs your local hospital offers. They are typically called charity care or financial assistance. You can visit your local hospital's website and find their financial assistance page. Or you can call the billing department and ask: "Do you have a financial assistance program? Where can I learn more details?" Every hospital has different programs and their coverage varies. You can get coverage from 60%, 80% and even 100% depending on your income and number of people living in your home. This is great option to look into in the event of a medical emergency, as well as, being able to see specialists and for any imaging you may need.
How I utilized this tip:
I was able to use the referrals my PCP gave me to see a rhuematologist and to receive physical therapy. At the time my family of 5 was considered low income, so I was able to receive 100% coverage, which meant that I paid 0% out of pocket.
3. Find a stand alone service provider. There are stand alone radiology locations that offer huge discounts for self pay clients. Typically self pay clients are people who have no insurance or the cost is too much for the patient to do it through their insurance company so they opt to do it self pay. Just make sure there are no stipulations against this with your insurance provider.
How I utilized this tip:
I needed my annual thyroid ultrasound and received a refferal from my PCP. I paid $149 at a local radiolgy location. My experience was great and they even provided me with the results in 2-3 business days.
4. Copay assistance programs. If you are on a medication and it’s expensive, you can call the manufacturer to see if they offer a copay assistance program. A lot of their programs are for both those with insurance and without. Be sure to see if your insurance company has co-pay accumulators since it impacts if that the manufacturer is covering if applied to your deductible/max out of pocket.
How I utilized this tip: I didn't need need to use this tip while I was uninsured as I wasn't on any prescribed medications.
5. Non profits. There are many non profits and churches who offer community mental health services. Often times they offer free or low cost mental health services. There are also non profits that specialize in specific health topics. I was able to be connected to a foundation that provides free mammograms to uninsured/underinsured women.
How I utilized this tip:
I was able to be connected to a foundation that provided free mammograms to women who are uninsured/underinsured. I had an amazing experience, and was able to get my mammogram for no cost.
6. Self pay services. Lastly, many therapists or providers offer a self pay fee and even sometimes offer a sliding scale fee. There has been a recent uptick of practitioners no longer taking insurance, and instead just charge a flat fee or even a membership fee for their services.
How I utilized this tip:
When I was in need of therapy and I was underinsured I was able to find a therapist who offered me a sliding scale fee. While it was still pricey, therapy is something I deeply value and figured out a way to pay for it still.
Alrighty I hope this was helpful. What other questions do you have for me as it pertains to all things healthcare system while being uninsured?
Until next time,
@yourfriend.jasmine, AFC®
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