In just two years (between 2015 and 2017), the cost of healthcare rose 14 percent, and the rates continue to rise annually. A great number of people are struggling to pay for insurance premiums and medical bills as a result.
The following resources provide assistance for families on fixed budgets and seniors on Medicare looking for the healthcare they need.
My Medicare Matters – Put together by the National Council on Aging, this resource aims to teach people about the Medicare system, including when to enroll, how much you’ll pay, and what to expect when coverage begins.
Medicare Rights Center – A nonprofit organization, The Medicare Rights Center is dedicated to ensuring people living with disabilities and older adults have access to affordable health care that they require.
Medicare Advantage – Medicare Advantage plans are offered by private insurance companies, which means plan availability varies from state to state. This site provides a helpful breakdown of Medicare Advantage Plans available in each state.
Medical Cost Advocate – A healthcare cost reductive service that helps patients renegotiate medical bills and check billing accuracy.
Find a Health Center – This online tool that allows people to find federally funded health centers in their area. The data can then be exported to PDF or XLSX.
FreeClinics.com – A state-by-state guide to finding free clinics. Offers additional information for no-cost medical clinics, affordable clinics, low-income clinics, and clinics that offer services to the uninsured.
Low-Cost Dental Care (NIH) – The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research provides tips for finding low-cost dental care.
Hill-Burton Free and Reduced Cost Health Care – Information about Hill-Burton free care, which is available to people below current HHS poverty levels. This service is available in about 140 hospitals nationwide.
PACER Center – Specializing in children with disabilities, PACER Center provides a resource to help parents locate medical treatment and assistance.
NeedyMeds.org – A national nonprofit that provides a wealth of information about drug assistance programs and affordable healthcare options.
Written by James Hall
