Low-Cost Insurance Alternatives to Medicaid or Medicare

Here are some options if you don't qualify for Medicaid or Medicare:

• Health Insurance Marketplace (Exchange) Plans: The Affordable Care Act (ACA) established these marketplaces for individual’s ineligible for Medicaid or Medicare. They offer various health insurance plans, often with financial assistance and potential subsidies based on income.
• Catastrophic Health Insurance Plans: Geared toward those under 30 or facing hardships, these plans feature low monthly premiums but high deductibles. They're designed to cover major medical events.
• Short-Term Health Insurance: These plans provide temporary coverage for up to 12 months, albeit with limitations and exclusions for pre-existing conditions.
• COBRA: For those who've lost employer-based coverage, COBRA allows continued access to the same plan for a limited period, though it's not the most economical option.
• Community Health Centers: Offering reduced-cost primary care based on income, these centers provide check-ups, vaccinations, and screenings.
• Healthcare Sharing Ministries: Faith-based, non-insurance groups where members share medical expenses are unlike traditional insurance plans and carry more risk due to a lack of Affordable Care Act (ACA) regulation.
• Medicaid Expansion: Some states expanded Medicaid eligibility under the ACA, potentially broadening income-based qualifications.
• Student Health Plans: If you're a student, your educational institution might offer affordable health insurance plans specifically for students.
• Small Business Health Options Program (SHOP) Marketplace: Small business owners can explore the SHOP Marketplace to provide employee health insurance.