Rising health insurance premiums and staggering medical costs, combined with the loss and lack of jobs, has left millions of people without health insurance coverage. Health insurance premiums have far outpaced wages and left the average middle class without a way to obtain necessary medical care. Many states offer health insurance at a reduced cost, but these programs mostly cover children. Again, this shuts the door on many middle-aged, middle class Americans. If you find yourself among those who are currently uninsured, there many ways to find low-cost or no-cost health care.
Diagnostic Testing
Diagnostic testing includes blood work, X-rays, MRIs and CAT scans, along with many other procedures. Open an Internet search engine such as Yahoo!, Bing or Google and search for local organizations that fund diagnostic testing. The Bureau of Primary Health Care has a list of medical facilities that offer free or low-cost diagnostic testing.
Breast Cancer, Prostate Cancer, Depression, Diabetes, High Blood Pressure Screenings
City sponsored screening events happen in most larger areas. Some hospitals, doctor’s offices, mobile facilities and pharmacies offer regular screenings for free or at a low cost. The American Cancer Society puts out a list of facilities that offer a variety of cancer screening events for breast cancer, skin cancer or prostate cancer. The Centers for Disease Control sponsors low-cost or free mammograms and PAP smears.
Prenatal Care
Prenatal care is vitally important for the health of both mom and baby. Look into your area resources for programs run by Planned Parenthood. They also provide postnatal care in many cases. Some programs are free and others require low payments.
Medications
Contact the drug manufacturer to find out if you qualify for reduced cost medications for low-income people. Local clinics and doctors who provide free or low-cost medical care many times provide their patients with necessary prescription drugs at a fraction of the pharmacy cost or for free.
Eyeglasses
The Lion’s Club and The American Optometric Association sponsor events for those without insurance to have their eyes checked and get prescription glasses for free or at a highly reduced cost.
Emergency Care
Always seek emergency medical care in the event of a medical emergency. Hospitals, by law, cannot turn anyone away without examining them first. If you are low income, hospitals have a department dedicated to charity care. After filling out the necessary paperwork, your charity care claim is evaluated and a determination is made in regards to your eligibility.