FAQ: Health Care Services & Programs
Good news! There are many health care services and programs available to you and your family whether you have health insurance or not. Many of them are free (if you meet certain incomes requirements) or the amount of the charge is based upon your income.
Health Centers
Need a doctor, a check up, have a cold, etc.? A primary health center near you may provide just what you need. In some locations a full range of services such as dental care and prescription drugs may also be available. Services may be free or charges based upon your income. In specific areas of the state, contact the numbers listed below:
- Allegheny County 412-578-8026
- Allentown 610-437-7760
- Bethlehem 610-865-7087
- Bucks County 215-345-3318
- Chester County 610-344-6225
- Erie County 814-451-6700
- Montgomery County 610-278-5117
- Philadelphia 215-686-5000 www.phila.gov/health/
- Wilkes Barre 570-208-4268
- York 717-849-2252
For all other areas of the state, call 1-877-PA-HEALTH or access the Web at www.health.state.pa.us, "Healthcare Access Guide."
Pregnancy/High Risk Pregnancy (Health Beginnings/Healthy Beginnings Plus)
If you are pregnant, you may be eligible for Healthy Beginnings - a Medical Assistance program that provides comprehensive health care coverage to pregnant women during pregnancy and for their babies for a full year. The program is completely free. Call 1-800-842-2020 for more information on how to apply and where you may receive care at a location near you. You can also access Web information at www.dpw.state.pa.us, "Services for Low-Income Pennsylvanians."
Dental Care
Free or low-cost dental care may be provided by a dentist in your area. For more information, access the Web at www.padental.org, "Patients."
Mental Health Treatment/Drug or Alcohol Abuse Treatment
Individuals and families can receive mental health treatment and drug or alcohol treatment at a location near their home. Service may be free or low-cost, depending on your income. Call 1 800-692-7462 for more information or access Web information at www.dpw.state.pa.us, "Services for Families in Pennsylvania."
Children with Special Health Care Needs
If your child has a special health care need or a chronic condition s/he may qualify for Medical Assistance and/or other services. If your child has a special health care need or a chronic condition, your income is not considered when determining your child's eligibility for Medical Assistance. Children receiving Medical Assistance are entitled to coverage of all medically necessary treatment. If your child is not eligible for Medical Assistance, s/he may still qualify for health insurance coverage under CHIP. Call the Special Kids Network at 1-800-986-4550 for more information or access Web information at www.dpw.state.pa.us, "Services for Children in Pennsylvania."
Information on Private Insurance Options
You may wish to obtain information on private insurance options. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department's Web site www.ins.state.pa.us, offers information on HMO plans and other health insurance options. Under "Licensed PA Insurance Companies" select "Licensed Insurance Companies." Choose the "accident and health" option and key in either "HMO" or "PPO" to view licensed companies in Pennsylvania with HMO or PPO products. This information may also be requested by calling the Department's automated Consumer Hotline at 1-877-881-6388.
I have more questions. Can I talk to someone about CHIP?
Figuring out insurance questions these days can be complicated, but applying for CHIP is simple. Knowledgeable, courteous counselors are available at 1-800-986-KIDS (TTY/TDD 1-800-451-5886) to assist you. A counselor will also help you sort through the information and can help you apply for CHIP and other social service programs. You can also send your question to us and someone will get back to you shortly.
