Paying for Healthcare
Health Coverage
Maine Equal Justice is the best resource for up-to-date information about health insurance and health care options for people with low- or no incomes and/ or noncitizen status
Mainecare
Maine’s medicaid program - free health insurance for those who qualify
Administered through DHHS - apply online
Eligibility information - Maine children under 21, regardless of immigration status, qualify if their household meets the income guidelines
Community Free Clinic
Portland has a free clinic for uninsured low-income adults who live in Cumberland County
“Free Care” and similar programs
Large healthcare providers in Maine have their own income-dependent programs for patients who cannot pay. People with no income should be able to get essential healthcare at no cost (except the cost of paperwork and time!!). Free Care is the name of the program at MaineHealth, other providers have their own version.
If someone receives a medical bill they can’t pay, DO NOT IGNORE IT but also DON’T PANIC! Call the number on the bill and explain you/ they have no money. Be prepared to sit on hold and jump through some hoops to prove income eligibility, but often the bill can be erased or reduced or at least a payment plan arranged. Don’t ignore it, or it will go to collections and become a bigger problem!