Person with a Disability

People with disabilities may have difficulty obtaining health coverage because carriers usually evaluate an applicant´s health status when issuing many types of policies. However, a carrier may never legally evaluate your disability as a condition of joining any employer sponsored health plan. Nor may a carrier decline to issue coverage or charge you a higher rate for any type of coverage unless the company can show your disability increases your risk of having a claim.

• Follow these steps to find health care coverage if you´re a person with a disability.

Senior

Seniors who don´t already have coverage may have difficulty qualifying because carriers often evaluate age as a health risk factor. However, if you´re over age 65, you automatically qualify for Medicare, the national health plan that will likely cover most, but not all, of your costs. Medicare supplement policies can help make up the difference. Many government-sponsored and non-profit programs also provide seniors with discounts or low-cost health services.

• Follow these steps to find senior health care coverage.

College Student

Having access to the health care you need is important at any age. If you are a student, you can likely continue coverage under your parent´s policy. However, certain restrictions may apply. Many Texas colleges also offer affordable health plans for students.

• Follow these steps to find student health care coverage.

Parent or Guardian

If you´re a parent or guardian, you´ll want to ensure that your child has access to health care, including immunizations, preventive care, and routine and emergency health services. If you meet certain income requirements, state and federal assistance programs can help.

• Follow these steps to find health coverage for your child.

Individual

If you´re seeking coverage only for yourself, your best option will likely be to try and join group health plan, such as one often offered through an employee benefits package, or through membership in an organization such as a church, trade union, or professional association. If you´re unable to find group coverage, you may be able to purchase an individual policy directly from a carrier . Individual coverage is generally more expensive and harder to qualify for than group coverage, however.

• Follow these steps to find individual health coverage.

Person who is unemployed

If you´re unemployed, finding affordable health coverage can be challenging. However, if you´re newly unemployed and previously maintained coverage through a work-sponsored plan, state and federal laws may allow you to continue your plan membership for some time. Other coverage options for you and your family may also be available.

More Information for Unemployed Texans

Small Business Employer

Many small employers provide health coverage for their employees through a group health plan. However finding a health plan that meets the needs of both your employees and your business can be challenging. The following resource pages can help you shop for an affordable group health plan.

• If your business has between two to 50 full-time employees, refer to the Small Employer Resource Page.
• If your business has more than 50 full-time employees, refer to the Mid-sized or Large Employer Resource Page.
• If you´re self employed and have no full-time employees, refer to the Individual Health Coverage Page.

Mid-sized or Large Employer

For many businesses, providing a comprehensive employee health plan can be essential for attracting and keeping quality staff. However, offering a health plan can also be a significant business expense. Finding a health plan that meets the needs of both your employees and your company can be challenging. The following resource pages can help you shop for an affordable group health plan.

• If your business has more than 50 full-time employees, refer to the Mid-sized or Large Employer Resource Page.
• If your business has two to 50 full-time employees, refer to the Small Employer Resource Page.
• If you´re self employed and have no full-time employees, refer to the Individual Health Coverage Page.