Aside from private health insurance, there are various ways to get help with medical expenses.

Get Financial Aid for Healthcare Several government programs can assist with medical care, prescription drugs, and vaccinations. Your eligibility depends on your income, age, employment status, and health condition. These programs include:

• Medicaid
• Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)
• Medicare
• Affordable Care Act (ACA) or Health Insurance Marketplace
• Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA)

Learn how these programs work, determine your eligibility, and find out how to apply.

Get Financial Assistance for Prescription Medications Reach out to pharmaceutical companies that produce the prescribed medications or devices. Inquire about available discount options. Consider generic medications as they can lower your costs. State social service agencies offer assistance for individuals with limited access to healthcare services. They can refer you to local health centers or organizations that might help. If you qualify for Medicare, you can get help paying for prescription drugs through Medicare Part D.

What to Do if You Have Trouble Paying Hospital Bills You can contact the financial department of the hospital that treated you to negotiate a bill reduction or set up a payment plan. Be well-informed about your rights and review your itemized bill before discussing it with your provider. You can also reach out to the hospital’s patient advocate to help you navigate the healthcare system.

Get Financial Assistance for Vaccinations Depending on your income, age, and health insurance, you or your children might be eligible for free vaccines.

• Use Vaccines.gov to find free flu and COVID-19 vaccines near you.
• Learn about the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program for free childhood vaccines.
• Locate a local health center where your family can get vaccinated based on your income.

Find Other Government Benefits for People with Disabilities, Injuries, or Illnesses Use the USAGov Benefits Finder to discover additional benefits for people with disabilities, injuries, or illnesses that can help with expenses, education, employment, and more.