TOOL KIT FOR THE UNINSURED AND UNDERINSURED

Not having health insurance—or being "underinsured" and not having enough health insurance—can be a frightening and worrisome experience. But there are many options you can explore to get the coverage and care you need, including free- and low-cost prescription drug assistance as well as free- and low-cost health checkups and screening programs. The best thing to do is to educate yourself about the available options, and then make an informed choice about which of those options is best for you. Here are steps to take and options to explore:

• Find out about low-cost health care in your area

• Find out about free or low-cost health care options for infants, children and teens

• Find out if you are eligible for free care

• Find out if you are eligible for Medicare and other health care options for seniors

• Find out if you are covered under COBRA

• Consider purchasing health insurance

• Enroll in a Medicare prescription drug plan

• Check out Partnership for Prescription Assistance and other drug discount and distribution programs

• Find out if there are any cheaper alternatives to the medications you are taking

• Find out about free or low-cost screening programs for women in your area

• More resources