Main programs
- Medicaid — free or low-cost health coverage for low-income adults, kids, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities. Income limits vary by state.
- CHIP (Children's Health Insurance Program) — covers kids in families that earn too much for Medicaid but can't afford private insurance.
- ACA marketplace (healthcare.gov) — subsidized plans during open enrollment or after a qualifying life event.
- Medicare — for people 65+ and some younger people with disabilities. Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs lower costs.
- VA healthcare — for eligible veterans.
Where to get care without insurance
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) — sliding fee, all ages, all incomes. Find one at findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.
- Free and charitable clinics — nafcclinics.org locator.
- Planned Parenthood — reproductive and primary care on sliding scale.
- Hospital charity care — ask the billing office for the financial assistance application.
Help with prescription costs
RxAssist, NeedyMeds, GoodRx, and manufacturer patient-assistance programs can dramatically lower prescription costs. Many pharmacies offer $4 generic lists.