How to Access Free or Low Cost Medical Care
For any disability claim to be successful, there must be medical evidence demonstrating that your impairments are severe. This presents a problem for many claimants who lack reliable access to medical care. The main barrier to accessing appropriate medical treatment for those who are no longer able to work is cost. Some are lucky enough to be eligible for employer sponsored health insurance through their spouse. If this option is not available to you, it is important that you seek alternative means of receiving treatment.
First, Look At Medicaid
You should first determine if you are eligible for health coverage through Medicaid, which is government-sponsored healthcare coverage for low-income Americans. It is a program that is jointly funded by the States and by Congress, and is administered by each State. Medicaid is a means-tested program only available to those who lack economic resources. In 2010, Congress passed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, which expanded eligibility for Medicaid to those Americans within 133 percent of the poverty line. Unfortunately for those in dire need of medical care, the U.S. Supreme Court overturned this provision of the Act, and made the Medicaid expansion optional for each State, with many opting out. You can find out if you and your family are eligible for Medicaid coverage here.
Second, Look Into Other Federal & State Programs
If you are not eligible for Medicaid, you may still be able to receive subsidies from the government to purchase private medical insurance through the Affordable Care Act. Your eligibility for subsidies will depend on your income and family size, and the coverage available in your state. To find out if you qualify for subsidize health insurance coverage, visit healthcare.gov.
Free and Low Cost Clinics Exist Nationwide
There are many who will find themselves unable to afford even subsidized health insurance available on the exchanges, but who have too many assets to qualify for Medicaid – especially in those States that did not expand Medicaid eligibility. For these individuals, it is still vital to seek out whatever medical care is available. There clinics all over the country that offer free or reduced-cost medical care, which are listed in the links below:
Since 2010, Citizens Disability has been America’s premier Social Security Disability advocate. Our mission is to give a voice to the millions of Americans who are disabled and unable to work, helping them receive the Social Security Disability benefits to which they may be entitled. We have helped tens of thousands of individuals with their SSDI claims. Your success is our mission.
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