While you’re likely enjoying the lower cost of living and friendly people in Oklahoma, navigating the healthcare system on a budget may prove challenging. Between finding an affordable insurance plan, locating doctors who accept your coverage, and paying out-of-pocket costs, medical care gets pricey fast. Don’t worry, with resourcefulness, you can receive care without breaking the bank.
This blog post provides tips for accessing medical services in Oklahoma on a budget. We’re going to be exploring insurance options for individuals and families, ways to reduce prescription and procedure costs, free or low-cost clinic options, and more. Our goal is to equip you with the knowledge to make the best healthcare choices for your needs and budget. By the end, you’ll feel empowered to find good doctors, get necessary treatment, and maintain your health – all without paying an arm and a leg.
Finding Affordable Health Insurance Options
Finding affordable health insurance likely seems like an endless maze of options. Where do you even start? Here are some of the best ways to receive good coverage on a budget in Oklahoma:
The Health Insurance Marketplace
The Health Insurance Marketplace, created by the Affordable Care Act, is a great place to compare related health coverage plans and find one that fits your needs and budget. Most Oklahomans qualify for tax credits and subsidies to help pay for a plan. Open enrollment for 2021 coverage runs from November 1 to December 15.
Shop and compare plans on HealthCare.gov to find one with the coverage and doctors you want at a price you can afford. Plans are categorized by metal tier: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum. Bronze and Silver plans usually have lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs.
Look Into Alternative Options
If the Marketplace plans are still too pricey, consider other alternatives like short-term health insurance, health care sharing ministries, or prescription discount cards. These options typically have lower premiums but less coverage. They can work as a temporary solution until you find a more comprehensive plan.
Health insurance is a big expense, but your health and financial security are worth it. With some patience and perseverance, you can find affordable coverage. Don’t stress – there are good options out there just for you!
Accessing Low-Cost Clinics and Health Centers
Community health centers and clinics provide essential services on a sliding fee scale based on your income.
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)
FQHCs, also known as community health centers, provide primary and preventive care for people of all ages, regardless of their ability to pay. Services include physical exams, treatment of common illnesses, prenatal and pediatric care, dental care, mental health counseling, and substance abuse treatment. Fees are charged on a sliding scale based on your income. To find an FQHC near you, visit FindaHealthCenter.hrsa.gov.
Free Clinics
Free clinics provide care at little or no cost for uninsured and underinsured Oklahomans. Services vary but often include general medical care, dental care, vision care, and mental health services. Some clinics require an appointment while others offer walk-in hours. Search for free clinics in Oklahoma at FreeClinics.com.
Health Departments
County health departments offer essential services like immunizations, family planning, prenatal and postnatal care, and treatment of communicable diseases for people of all incomes.
Rural Clinics
Rural health clinics provide primary care services in underserved rural areas of Oklahoma. They accept Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance, and also offer services at reduced fees for uninsured patients based on their ability to pay. Find a rural health clinic on the Oklahoma Primary Care Association website at okpca.org.
With many low-cost and affordable options available, no Oklahoman should go without needed medical care. Take the time to explore clinics and health centers in your area to find one that meets your needs.
Saving Money on Prescription Medications
There is also many ways to save money on prescription drugs in Oklahoma. Here are some tips:
Store-brand Medications
Store-brand drugs have the same active ingredients as brand name drugs but cost significantly less. Ask your doctor if a store-brand version is available on your prescriptions. Some could cost up to 85% less than brand name medications.
Check for Prescription Assistance Programs
Many large pharmaceutical companies offer assistance programs for those who can’t afford their medications. You may be able to get brand name drugs for almost no cost. Check the website of the drug manufacturer to know if they offer an assistance program and if you’re eligible based on your income.
Compare Prices at Different Pharmacies
Don’t assume the pharmacy closest to you offers the best prices. Compare the costs of your prescription medications at different pharmacies, including major chains like CVS, Walgreens and Walmart as well as discount retailers like Costco and Sam’s Club. You can save up to 50-75% on some generic drugs just by choosing a lower-cost pharmacy.
Discounts?
Always ask your pharmacist if there are any available discounts on your prescriptions. They may be able to suggest lower-cost alternatives or savings cards to reduce prices. Some pharmacies such as Costco or Walmart offer membership programs with added pharmacy benefits. It may be worth paying an annual membership fee to save hundreds or even thousands a year on medications.
Shop Bulk
With medications you take long-term, consider asking your doctor for a 90-day prescription instead of 30 days. Most pharmacies offer better pricing for a 90-day supply versus paying three co-pays for 30-day refills. You’re going to make fewer trips to the pharmacy and likely pay less overall. Some pharmacies may charge a small additional fee for 90-day prescriptions, so compare prices first.
Government Programs That Offer Free Healthcare
If you’re uninsured or have inadequate health insurance coverage, the government even offers some options to help you access free or low-cost medical care in Oklahoma.
Medicaid
Oklahoma Medicaid guarantees coverage for low-income individuals including children, pregnant women, elderly, parents of dependent children, and those with physical or mental impairment. In Oklahoma, Medicaid is administered by Oklahoma health care authority. To receive medical benefits, you must meet annual household income requirements which vary based on your family size and situation. Medicaid’s medical benefits pay for services like hospital stays, doctor visits, vaccinations, nursing home care, and home health services.
Community Centers
Community health centers provide low-cost or free health care services to underserved communities. They offer primary care, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and social services. Charges are based on your ability to pay. There are over 230 health center sites across Oklahoma serving more than 330,000 patients.
Free Clinics
Free clinics provide free or low-cost health care services to uninsured and underserved populations. They rely on volunteer doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide care. Services offered vary by clinic but often include primary care, dental, vision, and behavioral health services. There are free clinics located throughout Oklahoma that provide care to thousands of individuals each year.
Other options for low-income and uninsured Oklahomans include prescription assistance programs, Indian Health Services for Native Americans, and health departments which offer immunizations, health screenings, prenatal care, and health education. Don’t hesitate to check if you qualify for any of these government programs. Your health and well-being are worth it.
EASY Wireless’ FREE Phone Plan
If you’re reading this blog, you’re likely in Oklahoma facing some sort of financial struggle. Don’t worry — it happens all the time. Luckily, EASY Wireless is here to help!
While we can’t provide medical assistance ourselves, partnering with programs such as Lifeline & ACP, we’re offering FREE phones with data to eligible individuals just like yourself. Whether you need to keep in touch with friends & family or you want to just save money on your current plan, here’s what we’re offering:
EASY Wireless Unlimited Plan
- FREE Unlimited Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
To start with EASY Wireless, apply online by clicking the below:
Start Saving Today!
Start Saving Today!
Or you can come to one of the EASY Wireless’s retail stores, where our customer service agent will help you apply for your benefits.
