The following information details health insurance and assistance programs available to uninsured people in Vermont. 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.
Vermont Division of Health Care Administration - (800) 631-7788
Residents of Vermont cannot be turned down from purchasing an individual health insurance policy regardless of any health conditions they may have. This is called guaranteed issue. In addition, residents cannot be charged a higher rate for their policy because of their health status. This is called community rating. The Vermont Division of Health Care Administration may be able to help you locate names and phone numbers of possible insurers who will sell you this type of policy.
If you are self-employed with no employees, you can choose to purchase a small group policy on your own. However, you can also purchase an individual policy, as mentioned above. You must be able to show proof of residency in the state of Vermont.
Vermont Office of Health Care Ombudsman - (800) 917-7787
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 Division of Health Care Administration. They may be able to provide you with assistance in reaching a conclusion.
Vermont Medicaid - (800) 250-8427
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.
Dr. Dynasaur - State Children’s Health Insurance Program - (800) 250-8427
Dr. Dynasaur is the health insurance program designed to provide health insurance to children and teens under age 19 as well as pregnant women whose families may have too great an income to qualify for Medicaid, but who may not be able to afford health insurance. Visit the Web site to find out more about the income guidelines.
Vermont Health Access Plan (VHAP) - Health insurance program, prescription drug program, etc. - (800) 250-8427
The Vermont Health Access Plan provides health insurance coverage to adults. It includes a variety of services. The VHAP plan also includes a pharmacy and eyeglass-only benefit for adults who qualify (VHAP Pharmacy). In addition, programs that provide maintenance drugs for elderly or disabled individuals who do not qualify for Medicaid are available through the VScript and VScript-expansion programs. Contact VHAP for more information on all of these programs.
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.
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