QUICK LINKS
Employer-Sponsored or Private Health Insurance
If you are insured through an employer or if you have purchased a private plan, check with your insurance provider or your human resource department to find out what mental/behavioral health services are covered under your plan, what your co-pays will be, etc. Most insurance companies provide a searchable directory on their web site showing their network of providers or call the Member Services toll-free number on your insurance card.
If you are not covered by your employer or through a private plan, you may qualify for one of the following:
State Programs
BadgerCare Plus: A health care coverage program for low-income Wisconsin residents.
Medicaid for the Elderly, Blind and Disabled
ACCESS Wisconsin: An internet tool that can help determine which low or no-cost health care, nutrition, or other programs a person may be eligible for including Medicaid and BadgerCare.
Federal Programs
Medicare is available to those over the age of 65. Medicare Part A covers hospital expenses, including home health care and hospice care. Part B covers medical services, such as physician services, outpatient hospital care, and laboratory services. Part D covers some prescription medications.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability (SSD): Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. Both are administered by the Social Security Administration and only individuals who have a disability and meet medical criteria may qualify for benefits under either program.
Resources for the Uninsured or Underinsured
It can be challenging to find affordable care. The following resources may be able to assist you if you are uninsured:
Dial 2-1-1: 2-1-1 is the three digit dialing code designated to provide widespread access to human services, community information and referral. Each county in Wisconsin is connected to a 2-1-1 service. Simply dial 2-1-1 on your phone. Specific contact information for each county can be found in the Statewide Resources section.
Department of Health and Human Services: Contact your county's Department of Health and Human Services to find out which clinics or hositals serve those without insurance. Contact information for each county can be found in the Statewide Resources section.
Free or Low Cost Clinics: The Department of Health Services provides listings for free or low cost clinics throughout the state. Please note that some but not all clinics listed offer mental health treatment.
Sliding Fee Scale: Mental health clinics may provide services on a sliding fee scale; you may be able to obtain services for a reduced price based on your income and ability to pay.
Colleges or Universities: May have reduced fee or free mental health services through their education or training programs. Services may be available for both students and the community.
For resources in Milwaukee County, you may also MHA at (414) 276-3122 or by email at info@mhawisconsin.org.
Additional Resources
ABC for Health, Inc.- Advocacy and Benefits Counseling (ABC) for Health provides health care consumers with information, advocacy tools, legal services, and expert support they need to navigate through complex and confusing health care financing system.
Medigap Helpline- This is a statewide toll-free number provided by the Wisconsin Board on Aging and Long Term Care. It has no connection with any insurance company.
Wisconsin Consumer Guide to Health Care (Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services) - Information on choosing a health care provider, paying for care, filing complaints, coping with chronic illnesses or disabilities, getting the most out of your health care, and additional local and national resources.
HealthCare.gov - A web site created by the federal Department of Health and Human Services to provide information to consumers and small employers regarding the Affordable Health Care Act and health care and long-term care insurance information.
Paying for Prescription Medication
Medicare Part D: Medicare prescription drug coverage.
Medicare Part D Helpline
Partnership for Prescription Assistance: Offers a single point of access to more than 475 public and private patient assistance programs, including more than 180 programs offered by pharmaceutical companies.
RX Assist: Database of patient assistance programs, as well as practical tools, news, and articles for health care professionals and patients.
SeniorCare: Wisconsin's prescription drug assistance program for Wisconsin residents age 65 or older who meet eligibility requirements.