Healthcare costs can become difficult to manage, especially when you are dealing with medical treatment, prescriptions, hospital bills, insurance deductibles, or ongoing care. Fortunately, there may be programs and assistance options that can help reduce what you have to pay.
Depending on your income, age, household situation, insurance coverage, and healthcare needs, you may qualify for government health programs, hospital financial assistance, prescription savings, or other forms of support.
Who May Qualify for Healthcare Cost Assistance?
Eligibility depends on the specific program. You may find assistance if you:
- Have a low or limited household income
- Are uninsured or underinsured
- Are a senior or qualify for Medicare
- Have a disability or qualifying medical condition
- Have children who need healthcare
- Are facing large medical or hospital bills
- Need help paying for prescription medications
- Are experiencing financial hardship
- Need ongoing treatment or specialized care
Programs use different eligibility requirements, so qualifying for one type of assistance does not necessarily mean you qualify for another.
Check What You May Qualify For
Finding healthcare assistance can take time because programs have different rules and requirements. A short form can help identify potential assistance options that may fit your situation.
- ✓ Free eligibility check
- ✓ Free guidance if needed
Programs vary based on your eligibility, location, household circumstances, and healthcare needs.
Types of Help With Healthcare Costs
Government Health Insurance Programs
Programs such as Medicaid, CHIP, Medicare, and Affordable Care Act Marketplace coverage may help eligible people pay for healthcare. Eligibility can depend on factors such as income, age, household circumstances, and other requirements.
Hospital Financial Assistance
Some hospitals offer financial assistance, sometimes called charity care, to eligible patients who cannot afford their medical bills. Nonprofit hospitals are required to provide financial assistance to eligible patients who cannot afford to pay. Ask the hospital's billing department for its financial assistance policy.
Help With Medical Bills
If you already received medical care and have a bill you cannot afford, you may be able to ask the provider for financial assistance, a reduced bill, or a payment plan.
Prescription Assistance
Depending on your circumstances, assistance may be available for prescription medications. Options can include government programs, manufacturer assistance, generic medications, or other prescription savings programs.
Medicare Cost Assistance
Some Medicare beneficiaries may qualify for Medicare Savings Programs that help with certain premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, or copayments. Medicare Extra Help may also help eligible people with prescription drug costs.
Free or Low-Cost Healthcare
Some government-supported programs provide free or low-cost services for specific healthcare needs. Eligibility may depend on income, insurance status, age, or the type of medical care required.
How Healthcare Financial Assistance Typically Works
- Identify the expense. Determine whether you need help with a hospital bill, insurance cost, prescription, treatment, or another healthcare expense.
- Check available programs. Look for government benefits, insurance assistance, hospital financial assistance, and other programs.
- Review eligibility requirements. Programs may consider income, household size, age, insurance status, location, or medical circumstances.
- Contact the appropriate organization. This may be a government agency, hospital billing department, insurance provider, or assistance organization.
- Apply and provide documentation. You may need proof of income, household information, insurance details, or medical bills.
- Follow up. Keep copies of applications and ask when you should expect a decision.
What If You Already Have a Large Medical Bill?
Do not assume you have to pay the entire amount immediately.
First, review the bill carefully and make sure the charges are accurate. You can also ask the provider whether the bill can be reduced or placed on a payment plan. CMS recommends asking the provider about financial assistance when you cannot afford the bill.
If you received care at a nonprofit hospital, ask specifically about its financial assistance or charity-care policy.
You may also be able to work with a patient advocate who can help you understand your bill and navigate financial assistance options.