I 21f need some advice on health insurance options

Seeking Advice
1

Hi everyone, I’ve been having a lot of health issues this year and have spent around $800 on doctor visits and medications already. I’m only 21 and work at a restaurant that doesn’t offer health insurance. I’m losing my savings with these bills and my health isn’t getting any better. I think I might need to go to a hospital soon but I have no insurance. Can anyone suggest what I can do or what insurance I could look into?

2

Thanks for sharing your situation, LBT. Please keep these things in mind:

  • If you have a medical emergency, call 911 or get to a nearby hospital.

  • If you’re unsure about what insurance plan to choose, check out this post for guidance on your options.

  • It would help if you could update your post with your age, state, and estimated monthly income so the community can assist you better.

  • If you have any documentation from your insurance provider, keep that ready as it may help with your questions.

  • You can find some common questions and their answers here too.

  • Please remember that spamming will result in a permanent ban, so refrain from that and report any spam you see.

  • Let’s be supportive of each other!

3

Which state are you in? You might qualify for Medicaid based on your state and income.

4

I’m in Texas and I make about $1200 monthly.

5

Unfortunately, Medicaid might not be an option for you.

6

Would applying and getting denied create a special enrollment window?

7

Not really. If you apply for coverage and are referred to Medicaid, that denial can lead to a special enrollment window. But it can take time, sometimes going past the open enrollment period. The denial isn’t a special enrollment opportunity for everyone. For your situation, it seems like you’re in what’s called the Medicaid gap, which affects 10 states. The other states expanded their Medicaid programs, but Texas has not.

8

You have a few options:

  • Try to find a way to earn at least 100% of the federal poverty level and you could get significant monthly savings on healthcare.

  • Look for another job that provides insurance.

  • Consider moving to a nearby state that has expanded Medicaid, where you would qualify for free health coverage because of your income.

9

There’s a pinned post about insurance basics that could be helpful. Start with that.

The open enrollment period has mostly closed, but based on your income, some people can sign up for plans throughout the year. Check out healthcare.gov to begin.