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Writer's pictureDye Global Immigration

Navigating the U.S. Healthcare System as an Immigrant

Updated: Sep 14, 2023

Health care can be costly if you do not have insurance. However, Health insurance allows you to get the treatment you need without incurring substantial medical bills. Read more about how recent legislation requires all American taxpayers to obtain and maintain health insurance.



Health care in the United States is considered excellent by international standards. However, health care can be costly if you do not have insurance. Health insurance allows you to get the treatment you need without incurring substantial medical bills.


Taking Care of Your Health

People in the United States pay for their medical care. Medical care is expensive, so many people buy health insurance. It would be best if you got health insurance for yourself and your family as soon as possible. Employers may offer health insurance as a benefit to their employees. Some employers pay all your monthly health insurance fees, and some produce only part of the fee. This monthly fee is called a premium. You may need to pay an amount of the premium. Usually, employers will deduct the employee's part of the premium from their paycheck. Doctors send their bills to your health insurance company. The health insurance company will pay for some or all of your medical services. Often you must pay a portion of your medical bills. This is sometimes called a "copayment."


If you do not have health insurance, you may be able to get federal or state healthcare assistance. Most states generally provide some aid to children and pregnant women. Check with the public health department of your state or town. If you need urgent medical care, you can go to the nearest hospital's emergency room. Most hospitals are required by federal law to treat patients with a medical emergency, even if the person cannot pay.


Finding a Clinic or Other Low-Cost Health Care

Clinics are medical offices that provide free or low-cost services. Most communities have at least one clinic. Community organizations that work with immigrants may know of a low-cost or free clinic in your area. Lawfully present immigrants are eligible for medical coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace®. You may be eligible for lower costs on monthly premiums and lower out-of-pocket costs based on your income.

Please visit the following website on health coverage for immigrants:


Source:

Stobie, Jeremy; Dye, Michael. Immigrating and Moving to the USA: A Practical Guide (p. 252). Blue Pelican Press. Kindle Edition.


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