United Way of Greater Cincinnati - LIVE UNITED

Tools for Tough Times - Maintaining Coverage and Saving on Healthcare

In the economic slowdown, many people have lost their health insurance or are struggling to afford healthcare and prescriptions.  But healthcare and savings are available to many people.

Healthcare After Job Loss or Change in Income

Losing a job can be scary enough, but for some, such as those with chronic health problems, that fear becomes magnified.  If you face losing your healthcare coverage due to job loss or change in income, consider the following: 

• If you are married and your spouse has job-based insurance, get added to their policy.
• See if you qualify to continue your current health insurance under COBRA, which gives laid off employees a right to continue their group health coverage for 18 months at their own expense.  Check with your employer to continue your health coverage
• Call your primary care doctor and explain your situation.  They may have a sliding scale, payment plans, a discount for self-pay patients or some other care program.
• Seek care at a community health center or public health clinic that serves patients at all income levels and provides medical care and, in some areas, dental care.  For further information about health services in your area, call United Way 211 by dialing 2-1-1.
• Don’t overlook public programs.  Even going from a double-income to single-income family may qualify you – or at least your kids – for certain programs.  Look into options such as your state’s Children’s Health Insurance Program.



Ohio
•	Healthy Start, also known as, SCHIP	www.jfs.ohio.gov/OHP/consumers/familychild.stm
Kentucky
•	Kentucky Children’s Health Insurance Program (KCHIP)	www.kidshealth.ky.gov
Indiana
•	Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)	www.healthcareforhoosiers.com



• If you have served in the armed services, you may be eligible to receive services through the VA Medical Center or one of its outpatient clinics - www.cincinnati.va.gov

Save Money on Prescriptions

Take advantage of one of the local prescription discount programs.

For additional resources or more information, contact United Way 211.

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