Accessing health care
Resources for the uninsured
As of July 1, 2010, people who have been unable to obtain health coverage because of a pre-existing health condition will have access to the new Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan (PCIP). Created under the Affordable Care Act, the PCIP is a transitional program until 2014, when pre-existing conditions will no longer be cause for denial.
What if I do not have health insurance?
If you are uninsured, you may be eligible for financial assistance programs to help you access treatment for psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis.
Getting prescription medications:
Check with the manufacturer of your prescribed medication first to see if you are eligible for assistance.
You can also search for assistance programs for multiple medications.
Your state also may have a drug assistance program.
Tips for finding free or reduced cost medical care:
- Find free/low cost clinics or other programs for the uninsured in your state.
- Keep in mind you may need to see a primary care provider at a free clinic before you can get a referral to a specialist. When you call for an appointment, let them know if you think you will need specialist care from a dermatologist or rheumatologist.
- If there is a university-affiliated hospital in your area, call the dermatology or rheumatology department and ask them about charity care policies or free specialist clinics.
- Ask hospitals about charity care policies, or check the hospital website for details.
- Contact your county health department for information about accessing health care.
- Talk to your health care provider about discounted office visits or payment plans.
- Be educated about patient assistance programs that help with the cost of medication and bring the information and forms to your appointment if possible.
Getting health coverage:
Check to see if you or your family are eligible for state health programs such as Medicaid.
Refer to Consumer Guides For Getting And Keeping Health Insurance or Guide to Finding Health Insurance for information about health insurance in your state.
Read the guides at Managing Medical Bills: Strategies for Navigating the Health Care System to learn more about public and private health insurance, and how to avoid and manage medical debt.
Learn about options if you have applied for insurance and been denied for a pre-existing condition.
If you are eligible for health insurance but cannot afford the premiums or co-pays, apply to patient assistance foundations for premium assistance.
Questions about the new federal health care law, the Affordable Care Act?
Find out what it means for people with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, or visit Healthcare.gov to find insurance options and other information.