Texas has a lot of different options for people who need help paying for healthcare. If you are not sure what you will qualify for keep reading to see what each program is about.
This survey by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission can also help. Take the survey by clicking here
Once you’ve decided on a program to apply to, visit the page “How do I apply?” to learn about each option’s application process.
The Gold Card
The Gold Card is available for anyone in Harris County who wants to apply. Residents who apply and who live near the poverty level are the most likely to qualify for the card. The Gold Card can dramatically reduce the costs of going to the doctor, even to the point of making it free for some medical expenses. However, the Gold Card is not like a regular insurance card. There are only certain doctors and clinics in Harris County that accept the Gold Card. Similarly, the clinics that accept it have certain time slots available to take Gold Card patients; if these slots are full, it may take a long time for you to actually meet with the doctor. Nonetheless, it is a good idea to apply if you think you live near the poverty level, because it can make going to the doctor a whole lot cheaper.
CHIP
The Children’s Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, is a federal program that provides healthcare for uninsured children until they are 19 years old. If you have children but you do not live close enough to the poverty level to qualify for medicaid, or if you are pregnant and cannot qualify for medicaid, you may be able to receive CHIP. To apply, your child must be a Texas resident and a US citizen- the program does not take your immigration status into account. If your child is under 19 years of age and lives with you at least half the time, or if you are pregnant, you should definitely consider applying for CHIP.
Medicaid
To qualify for Medicaid, your income must be 133% of the poverty level. The best way to find out if you qualify is to apply. Medicaid will cover your stays at the hospital, prescriptions, physician visits, some dental and eye care, and visits to the emergency room. Medicaid also provides transportation to the clinic if you need a ride. To find out more information click here.
Also, Medicaid covers care from the Breast and Cervical Cancer Prevention and Treatment program, so it is easy to be screened and taken care of if you think you might have cervical cancer. To apply for Medicaid, you must be a US citizen.