Depending on where you work, California can be an expensive place to live. Many people find themselves choosing bills and groceries over health insurance, but you don’t have to do that any longer. This guide will show you how to find affordable health insurance in California, no matter what budget you have.
Check out a few of these health care options to see if they’re right for you. They cover a range of medical needs for many different premiums, so no one has to pay for medical services out of pocket.
1. CHIP
The federal government works with the states to provide the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to qualifying children. It’s funded by Medicaid and related CHIP programs, and it offers comprehensive coverage for families who can’t afford premiums with private companies. It even includes dental care. Do your research to find the best insurance for your child’s needs.
2. Blue Shield of California
The California Medical Association founded Blue Shield of California to provide health insurance for in-state residents. It uses available Medicare options to make health providers and specialists more accessible. More than 4 million members use Blue Shield for health care needs, like contacting virtual nurses who are available 24/7 for questions and concerns.
Learn more about the program to see if it includes your preferred providers. You could get financial assistance to experience the best coverage for life-saving surgeries or annual appointments.
3. Kaiser Permanente
Anyone new to health insurance knows that understanding all of the terminologies can be complicated. Kaiser Permanente makes it simple for residents in any part of California to cut through the confusion. Its coordinated teams and care model explain everything you need to know, like HMO and PPO plan differences. Whether you want to use the telehealth feature or keep your preferred provider, Kaiser Permanente is an affordable way to get the health coverage you need without breaking your budget.
4. Health Net
Sometimes people struggle to get insurance because of their varying life stages. Health Net makes it possible for everyone to find affordable health insurance in California. Young kids, retirees and small-business owners can all access coverage through Health Net’s plans. They’re so inexpensive that the company serves one in 12 Californians or over 3 million people.
When you don’t use your premium to cover health services, it donates part of its profits to ending domestic violence through Donate4Sacramento. You’ll never waste a dime, even between checkups.
5. Anthem
Anthem is an independent licensee of BlueCross BlueShield. Its connection to the national health care giant makes it possible to get health, dental and vision insurance in a straightforward plan that works with your budget. After connecting your new policy with your preferred providers and specialists, members can use their private portal to maintain their care calendars and get advice on handling health complications.
6. CCHP
Language barriers shouldn’t keep anyone from getting health insurance, which is part of CCHP’s mission. The San Francisco-based Chinese Community Health Plan has many award-winning programs for California’s Chinese residents who need Medicare and Medicaid, as well as private options. Its plans work with the local Chinese Hospital of San Francisco and the Jade Health Care Medical Group.
Browse the plans to see if they cover your medical needs. If you don’t live in San Francisco, it may include your nearby providers through its many contracts with leading hospitals, clinics and various medical groups.
7. Medi-Cal
Californians can access Medicare through the state’s Medi-Cal program. Anyone with a limited annual income can apply for health insurance that covers adults and children. Seniors can also find comprehensive coverage through Medi-Cal and compare premiums based on their income. Beneficiaries may get prescriptions and dental services completely covered, in addition to surgeries and emergency care. Interested residents may call Medi-Cal’s health insurance counselors for free if they have any questions.
8. Major Risk Medical Insurance Program
Many people can’t get health insurance because of preexisting conditions. Californians with these complications can find coverage through the Major Risk Medical Insurance Program (MRMIP). It’s statewide health insurance subsidized by tobacco tax funds, so your minimal premium doesn’t exclude services because it’s more affordable.
If you’re ineligible for Medicare Parts A and B, look into applying for MRMIP today. There may be a waitlist, but you’ll find common questions and answers online that provide more information while you wait for additional health coverage.
Discover Affordable Health Insurance in California
Affordable health insurance in California is always one phone call or click away. Look into these companies and programs to discover the best coverage options for your needs and budget. You won’t have to compromise on your medical services just because of your health or income.
