Wisconsin

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The following information details health insurance and assistance programs available to uninsured people in Wisconsin. 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.  

Wisconsin Department of Insurance - (800) 236-8517
In Wisconsin, state law allows health insurance companies to turn people down for individual health insurance coverage based on the status of their health. In most cases, diabetes is considered an “uninsurable” condition. Even though you can be turned down for an individual policy in Wisconsin, 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.

Wisconsin Medicaid - (800) 362-3002
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.

Wisconsin Health Insurance Risk Sharing Plan - (800) 828-4777
The Wisconsin Health Insurance Risk Sharing Plan is the Wisconsin state high-risk pool. This program allows individual health insurance policies to be sold to people who might otherwise be considered “uninsurable” for this type of policy because of a chronic illness. Premiums may be high, and a pre-existing condition period may apply. Contact the Wisconsin Health Insurance Risk Sharing Plan for more information.

BadgerCare - State Children’s Health Insurance Program - (800) 362-3002
BadgerCare is the children’s health insurance program designed to provide health insurance to children and teens up to age 19 and their parents who may have too great an income or assets to qualify for Medicaid, but who may not be able to afford health insurance. To find out if you or your child meets the income guidelines, contact BadgerCare directly.

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!