Current Health Insurance Options

Starting in October of 2013, the Exchange will offer one place for Rhode Islanders to easily compare their health insurance options, buy the plan that works best for them, and in some cases qualify for discounts. In the meantime, here are some other options:

RIte Care

• Some low-income families and children qualify for health coverage through Rhode Island's RIte Care program.

Private Health Insurance

Individuals

• Right now, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island is the only place to buy health insurance for yourself if you don't receive coverage through your job or government assistance. Rhode Islanders will have more choices when the Exchange opens.
• Depending on your income and family size, you might qualify for discounted health insurance through Blue Cross Blue Shield's Access Blue program.
• If you have an expensive pre-existing condition, you might also qualify for less expensive coverage through Blue Cross Blue Shield's Pre-existing Condition Insurance Plan for Rhode Island.

Businesses

• Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island
• United Health Plan
• Tufts Health Plan

Medicaid

• Some low-income Rhode Islanders 65 years old or older and younger residents with permanent disabilities qualify for RI Medical Assistance, the state's Medicaid program.

Medicare

• Medicare is the nation's health program for people who are 65 or older, and younger people who are disabled. Additional information is available at www.medicare.gov, the official U.S. government site for Medicare.

Other Sources For Health Care

• Community Health Centers: If you can't afford health insurance, Rhode Island's community health centers offer care on a sliding scale basis depending on your income and family size. Find a center near you.
• Hospital Charity Care: Low income state residents without employer or government coverage can receive essential medical services at all hospitals in Rhode Island. Some services such as doctor's bills and outpatient medications are not included. More information about Hospital Charity Care.
• Rhode Island Free Clinic: Free health care to low income Rhode Islanders that can't afford insurance. Membership in the free clinic is determined by a monthly lottery on the first Thursday of the month. More information about the Rhode Island Free Clinic.
• Clinica Esperanza: Offers free health care to low income Rhode Islanders without health insurance. More information about Clínica Esperanza.