#1. Look into Medicaid expansion. If you live in one of the 41 states that has expanded Medicaid to people under age 65, and if your income is up to 138% of the federal poverty level, you might qualify for a lower premium.
#2. Connect with a community health navigator. Comparing plans can seem overwhelming. At healthcare.gov or your state’s health insurance marketplace, you can get in touch with a community health navigator in your state who has been trained to help you make an informed choice.
#3. Open a Health Savings Account. If you have a high-deductible plan, it probably offers a Health Savings Account (HSA) that you can use for qualifying medical expenses. Contributing to an HSA lowers your taxable income, and unlike a Flexible Spending Account, you don’t lose any money that you don’t spend.
#4. Find free clinics and community resources near you. There are about 1400 free clinics in the U.S. The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics offers a nationwide directory of clinics, pharmacies, and other resources if you need medical care but do not have insurance.
#5. Make a New Year’s resolution to learn about Black-led health organizations. The Black Women’s Health Imperative, National Black Nurses Association, BEAM: Black Emotional and Mental Health Initiative, and the Center for Black Health and Equity are some of the organizations working to improve health outcomes in the Black community. They deserve our gratitude—and our support.