Unemployed Gaining Access to Health Freebies

Posted in Health Insurance

November 30th, 2009

With more than 7 million American workers unemployed and many without health insurance, it has become important to find ways to obtain health assistance when needed. As a result,federally-funded health centers, and even a few private companies,have begun offering health freebies to those in need.

The Number of Uninsured Is On the Rise

Currently, there are 46 million without health insurance. That number is set to rise with a record numbers of workers being laid off.

Many workers were unable to keep up with their COBRA benefits after being let go, while others who were able to keep up have benefits set to expire soon. This means that even more will be without health insurance in a matter of months.

What Services Are Available?

Here are some places that you could find services available to those unemployed and without health insurance:

• Federally-funded health centers: According to the Health and Human Services website various health centers around the country are offering free checkups, immunizations and prescriptions drugs at a discounted rate.
• Walgreens: The store has launched the Take Care Recovery Plan that allows job seekers to get free health care services, including allergies and ear infectionsuntil the end of the year.
• Pfizer: The pharmaceutical giant is offering a medicine assistance program that allows unemployed families to continue getting their Pfizer medications, including Lipitor and Viagra.
• CVS: Is offering 100,000 free seasonal flu shots to the unemployeed. Vouchers are being distributed at employment agencies and can be redeemed at CVS pharmacy flu clinics or health care centers.

While purchasing health insurance without the assistance of an employer could be challenging, it’s not impossible. So if you’re looking for affordable health care coverage, visit Go Insurance Rates for more information.