If you don't have health insurance, paying for care can seem overwhelming. If you need care, it is important that you get medical care before you get worse. There are many resources available to help you.  Start now to get the coverage and care you need.

A referral is like getting a prescription from your regular doctor to go see a specialist. Referrals have expiration dates. Some have a limit on the number of visits. So, if you need to see the specialist after the end date on the referral or for more visits, you will need to get another referral.

You could pay a lot more

If your plan requires a referral but you don’t get one, you could pay a lot more. For example, your plan may charge you a penalty, cover the visit at a lower level, or not cover it at all.

Billing mistakes can happen. If the amount on your Explanation of Benefits (EOB) doesn't match the bill from your healthcare provider, take the following steps :

Health insurance will help you pay for health care, and protect you financially in the case of illness or injury.

Financial protection in case of medical emergencies

Medical emergencies, like serious injuries from a fall or a heart attack, can be very expensive. Fixing a broken limb, emergency surgeries, or spending a night in the hospital can cost thousands of dollars. These costs can lead to significant debt or even bankruptcy without health insurance.

Preventive care