If You're Still Unable to Find Alaska Health Insurance Coverage

7. If you still can't find health insurance...

...you may be able to get some help from the following resources:

Low-Cost Primary Health Care

A local community health clinic may be able to help you get low-cost primary health care. These clinics offer health services for the entire community on a sliding-scale fee. You can check for a community health clinic near you at www.ask.hrsa.gov/pc/ or by calling the Alaska Primary Care Association, Inc. at 907.272.6131.

Help with Hospital Bills

If you are uninsured and have to go to the hospital to get care, you may be able to receive some help paying your hospital bills. Some nonprofit hospitals are required to provide help because of their mission and tax status. Some states have laws that require hospitals to provide care for free or at reduced prices to people who are eligible. Also, many hospitals have financial assistance programs. There are also some federal laws that can help you. If you receive a bill, it's important that you make an effort to pay. Ask to speak with a financial counselor or a patient advocate at the hospital. You may be able to negotiate a lower bill or a better bill payment plan.

State Pharmacy Assistance Programs

You may qualify for programs in Alaska that can help you with drug costs and health care or other expenses. The National Council on the Aging's Web site, www.benefitscheckup.org, has a questionnaire that you can fill out to learn about a variety of state-based services for which you might qualify. Although the site focuses on services used by those over 65, many of the programs are available to younger individuals as well.

Other Prescription Drug Discount Programs

You may be eligible for a free or discount prescription drug program through the company that makes the drugs you need. You can get more information about these programs at www.rxassist.org or www.needymeds.com.

Veterans' Assistance

If you are a veteran, you may be entitled to care and prescription drug coverage through a VA medical facility. You may be eligible for assistance if you served at least 180 days active duty and have an honorable or general discharge. Contact the VA Health Benefits Service Center toll free at 1.877.222.VETS.