Insurance Resources

Apply for Extra Help through Social Security.

• You can apply online or call Social Security at 1 (800) 772-1213 or visit your local social security office.
• If you are enrolled in Medicare Part D you may be able to get help with your Medicare prescription drug plan costs. Help is based on your income.
• If approved, you won't enter the Medicare Part D coverage gap ("donut-hole").

Co-pay assistance programs

• State Kidney Programs are available in approximately 15 states and offer assistance for kidney transplant or dialysis patients with outpatient medications and other expenses. Eligibility guidelines vary by state.
• State Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs are offered in many states and the U.S. Virgin Islands and help paying drug plan premiums and/or other drug costs.
  • Assistance programs offered by pharmaceutical companies
• Talk to your healthcare provider about other medications available that may be more cost effective.

• Medicare – 1-800-Medicare
• Medicare Rights Center (800) 333-4114
• Medicare Savings Program (MSPs) help millions of people with Medicare save money each year. States have programs for people with limited income and resources that pay some or all of Medicare's premiums and may pay Medicare deductibles and coinsurance.
• State Health Insurance Assistance Programs (SHIPs) is a national program that offers one-on-one counseling and assistance to people with Medicare and their families.

• Apply for individual insurance plans through the Affordable Care Act Marketplace. Plans are provided based on your income and subsidies are available for those who qualify. You can enroll on line, or on the phone. To sit down and discuss your situation, click here to find local help.
  • Open enrollment: November 1, 2016 through January 31, 2017. However, there may be special enrollment periods.
  • 6 Things You Need to Know about Open Enrollment in the Health Insurance Marketplace
  • Kidney Care Insurance Worksheet is designed to help kidney patients compare plans offered in the health insurance marketplaces established by the Affordable Care Act, so they can choose the most affordable and comprehensive plan.
  • There are different levels of coverage, from catastrophic to Platinum (90%) coverage. Pick the level that best fits your medical needs and premium costs.
    • Note: If you are getting tax credit assistance, then you will need to be in a Silver (70%) plan.

• Community Health Centers: Find free or low cost health care at local Community Health Centers