Government Health Plans
Posted on January 22nd, 2009. Filed under: Insurance.The high cost of premiums and a slow economy is to blame for the rising rate of American’s going without health insurance. The Census is reporting an all time high. Due to the rising cost many employers are dropping their employer sponsered plans.
If we want to change this number we need to make people aware of the government funded options. Many American’s are eligible for these plans and don’t even realize. One example is a growing family. Pregnant mothers and their families are often eligible.
All of these programs have requirements that must be met to become eligible. With a few resources and explantions you will find here you can determine if yourself or someone you know could benefit from one of these programs.
Medicare is most popular as the health insurance for the elderly. Covering those over 65. But, it is not limited to the elderly. It will also cover someone in the late satges of Renal Kidney Disease and some people with certain disabilities no matter their age.
Medicare has a free plan called Part A (Hospital Insurance). For a small monthly fee you can purchse Part B (Medical Insurance). The Medical part can help with check ups and office visits. You can contact your local SSI office for more details.
Medicaid is another option. This program is for low income individuals and their families. Each State sets its own guidelines for eligibility. One person in the family may be eligible even if not all. Check the guidelines at your local Department of Human Services.
Children’s Health Insurance Plan, CHIP is a government plan that is administered by each State for lower income families to give children of these families medical and dental benefits. It is for children under 18 years of age. There is sometimes small fees associated with these benefits.
If you do not qualify for one of these plans you do not have to be one of the uninsured. Affordable health insurance can still be found on an individual bases. It may not be the most benefit rich plan you dream of, but it can cover the basics and eliminate some worries.