Living with Diabetes
Texas
The following information details health insurance and assistance programs available to uninsured people in Texas.
Texas Department of Insurance - (800) 252-3439
In Texas, 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 Texas, 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.
Texas Medicaid - (877) 541-7905
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.
Texas Health Insurance High Risk Pool - (888)398-3927
The Texas Health Insurance High Risk Pool is the Texas state high-risk pool. This program allows individual health insurance policies to be sold to people who might otherwise be considered “uninsurable” because of a chronic illness. Premiums may be high, and a pre-existing condition period may apply. Contact the Texas Health Insurance High Risk Pool for more information.
Texas Children’s Health Insurance Program (TXCHIP) - State Children’s Health Insurance Program - (877) 543-7669
The Children’s Health Insurance Program is the children’s health insurance program designed to provide coverage to children and teens up to age 19 whose families may have too great an income or assets to qualify for Medicaid, but who may not be able to afford health insurance. After qualifying, children in these programs must re-enroll every six months to remain eligible for TXCHIP. Visit the Web site to find out if you or your child meets the income guidelines.
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.
