Pennsylvania residents have many health insurance benefit options. Between individual health plans offered by many carriers and government programs, every resident should be able to find coverage that meets their needs and budget. Pennsylvania's Department of Insurance offers helpful resources for consumers to find information about health insurance benefits in the commonwealth.
Medical Assistance
Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare administers the state Medicaid program, called Medical Assistance in Pennsylvania. As of 2011, this program serves 2.2 million individuals. Eligibility for this federal and state funded program is based upon financial need. Medical Assistance offer full coverage for illnesses, routine, accident and emergency care. Administered by different carriers, where you live depends on who managed your Medical Assistance program. To apply for benefits, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare's COMPASS website or visit your local County Assistance Office.
National and Regional Carriers
If you are a Pennsylvania resident, you have the option of choosing from many national and regional health insurance carriers. If you do not have access to group health insurance through an employer, you can obtain an individual health insurance plan. Pennsylvania has five regional Blue Cross carriers and other national insurers such as Aetna, United Healthcare and Cigna offer plans throughout the state. Regional carriers such as Geisinger and HealthAmerica also provide coverage options.
PA Fair Care
As mandated by the Affordable Care Act, established in 2010, the government must provide health care to those with pre-existing conditions who have been unable to obtain affordable health insurance. Though some states have not established a program yet, in Pennsylvania, this program, managed at the state level, is called PA Fair Care. PA Fair Care is available to adults who qualify and offers full coverage health insurance. Administered by Highmark Blue Shield, as of 2011, enrollment is limited to 3,500 members.
Consumer Information
The Pennsylvania Insurance Department offers many brochures, guides and fact sheets to help residents learn about their health insurance options. Specifically, the information contained in the document, "A Consumer's Guide to Health Insurance," is useful to help Pennsylvania residents understand the types of health insurance, insurance concepts and where to get further assistance. This information is available on the Pennsylvania Insurance Department's website or by calling the consumer hotline at 877-881-6388 or emailing ra-in-consumer@state.pa.us.
Tags: health insurance, Medical Assistance, Fair Care, Pennsylvania Department, Assistance Pennsylvania, Department Public, Department Public Welfare
