Medical bills are a leading cause of financial stress, but there are many ways to get care and medicines for less. This guide covers the main sources of low-cost care and how to reduce what you pay. It is general information, not medical advice. If you think you are having an emergency, call 911.
Quick wins
- Find a community health center that charges based on income.
- Apply for Medicaid or CHIP, which you can do at any time of year.
- Ask your pharmacist about lower-cost generic versions of your medicines.
- Ask hospitals about their financial assistance policy before paying a large bill.
Community health centers
Federally supported community health centers provide primary care, and often dental, mental health and pharmacy services, to anyone in their area regardless of ability to pay. Fees are typically adjusted on a sliding scale based on income and family size. Use the HRSA Find a Health Center tool to locate one by address or ZIP code.
Free and charitable clinics
Free and charitable clinics, often run by volunteers, serve people without insurance or with limited means. The National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics has a directory. Dental schools and nursing programs also offer lower-cost care performed by students under supervision.
Health coverage: Medicaid, CHIP and marketplace plans
- Medicaid and CHIP. These programs provide low-cost or free coverage for eligible people, including many children, pregnant people, parents, older adults and people with disabilities. Eligibility and rules depend on your state, and they are changing in some places, so check with your state agency or at HealthCare.gov. You can apply at any time of year.
- Marketplace plans. If you do not qualify for Medicaid, you may be able to buy a plan on the Health Insurance Marketplace, with financial help based on income. Enrollment normally takes place during an annual open enrollment period each fall, and a life event such as losing coverage can open a special enrollment window. Check HealthCare.gov for current dates and subsidy rules.
- Medicare help. People with Medicare and limited income may qualify for the Extra Help program, which lowers prescription costs, and for Medicare Savings Programs that help pay premiums. Learn more from the Social Security Administration.
Save on prescriptions
- Ask for generics. Generic medicines contain the same active ingredients as brand-name ones and often cost far less.
- Compare pharmacy prices. The same medicine can cost very different amounts at different pharmacies, so call around or use a price-comparison tool.
- Ask about a 90-day supply for long-term medicines, which can lower the per-dose cost.
- Use patient assistance programs. Many drug makers offer free or low-cost medicine to people who qualify. NeedyMeds is a nonprofit directory of programs and discounts.
- Talk to your prescriber. Ask whether there is a cheaper equivalent, a sample, or a dosing change that reduces cost. Never skip or split doses without medical advice.
Reduce hospital and medical bills
- Ask for financial assistance. Nonprofit hospitals are required by federal law to have a financial assistance (charity care) policy. Ask the billing office for the application, and do so before paying.
- Request an itemized bill and check it for errors or duplicate charges.
- Negotiate. Providers often will set up interest-free payment plans or accept a reduced amount.
- Choose the right level of care. Emergency rooms cost far more than urgent care, community clinics or telehealth for non-emergencies.
Mental health support
Community health centers and many local clinics offer counseling on a sliding scale. If you or someone you know is in crisis or thinking about suicide, call or text 988 to reach the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at any time.
Related guides
If you need rides to appointments, see our transportation guide. For local help finding care, dial 211.