Pennsylvania

The following information details health insurance and assistance programs available to uninsured people in Pennsylvania. If you currently have health insurance or have just lost health insurance coverage within the past 60 days, visit the health insurance section of our Web site for options available to you. 

Pennsylvania Department of Insurance - (877) 881-6388
In Pennsylvania, Blue Cross Blue Shield has been identified as the insurer that must provide coverage to all residents who apply, regardless of any health conditions that they may have. Some pre-existing condition periods may apply. Contact the regional Blue Cross Blue Shield entity in your area for more information.

Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield - (800) 544-6679

Blue Cross of Northeastern Pennsylvania - (800) 829-8599

Capital Blue Cross and Blue Shield - (800) 958-5558

Independence Blue Cross and Blue Shield - (800) 453-2566

Please remember that even though insurers other than Blue Cross Blue Shield can turn you down for an individual health insurance policy in Pennsylvania, you can never be turned down for health insurance that is offered through an employer.

If you are having a problem with your state-regulated health plan and you are unable to resolve it with the plan directly, file a complaint with the Department of Insurance. They may be able to provide you with assistance in reaching a conclusion.

Pennsylvania Medicaid - (800) 692-7462
Medicaid is available to anyone who meets income and eligibility criteria. Even if your income meets the criteria, you must fall into one of the eligibility categories in order to qualify. Contact your state Medicaid program for more information.

Pennsylvania Children’s Health Insurance Program (PaCHIP) - State Children’s Health Insurance Program - (800) 986-KIDS
PaCHIP is the health coverage program designed to provide health coverage to children and families who have too great an income or assets to qualify for Medicaid, but who may not be able to access or afford other health coverage. Visit the Web site to find out if you or your child meets the income guidelines.

COMPASS - Adult Basic Health Insurance program - (800) GO-BASIC
Adult Basic is the health insurance program available to Pennsylvania residents aged 19-64 who meet certain eligibility criteria. While the program has a modest monthly premium, this program currently has a waiting list. In addition, it does not cover prescription drugs. Contact Adult Basic for more information, and to be placed on the waiting list.

Pennsylvania Health Law Project - 1-800-274-3258
Free legal and advocacy services are available to Pennsylvanians having trouble accessing publicly funded health care coverage or services. Contact the phone number mentioned above, or e-mail staff@phlp.org

If you or your loved one is unable to see a physician due to the cost of care, there may be a local community health clinic in your area. These clinics generally are free to patients or require a very small fee. Find a clinic in your area.

Having trouble finding or keeping adequate or affordable health insurance coverage? Become a diabetes advocate!