Paying for Health Care

Health care financing is a confusing maze of information. Sometimes it feels like you are trying to communicate in a foreign language. Several resources can help you understand the language and systems as well as give you a clear idea of what options are available.

For a quick overview health care financing, definitions and tips, see:

A Consumers Guide to Health Insurance covers basic health care financing questions, including both public and private insurance. It is an excellent introduction to health care financing. This document is published by the Vermont Department of Banking, Insurance, Securities & Health Care Administration. http://www.bishca.state.vt.us/sites/default/files/Consumer-Guide-Health-Ins.pdf

ALL families with children with special health needs should explore their Medicaid options. Most people associate Medicaid with income-based eligibility. However, children can also qualify for Medicaid because of their disability or special circumstances. In these cases, the child’s resources may count toward eligibility but not the parents’. We strongly recommend that you check out your options and apply for Medicaid using the easiest access for your situation. For an overview of Medicaid in Vermont see:

Six Ways to Access Medicaid explains the various Medicaid-related programs in Vermont. Six Ways Booklet

“SSI booklet” is an appendix to Six Ways, which looks at SSI (Supplemental Security Income) in more detail.  SSI Appendix

If you have any questions about health care financing, we discuss your questions, assist with applications, explain the appeals process, and brainstorm solutions to gaps in your health care coverage.

Call Family Support Health at 1-800-800-4005.