Information about health plans for unit members
who do not have health benefits.

NOTE: These are NOT MTA or MCCC Plans.
These are plans offered through the Commonwealth. 

The Nongroup Health Insurance Program

Massachusetts residents who are not eligible for employer-based health coverage can purchase nongroup health care insurance or coverage from any carrier offering plans. Carriers offering this coverage may not refuse any applicants based on their health nor impose preexisting condition exclusions or waiting periods.

There is a continuous open enrollment period so that your coverage will become effective within 30 days of submitting an application

As a cost comparison, the commonwealth's group health plans offered to full-time and more-than-half-time employees cost, on average, $377 per month for a single plan, and $890 per month for a family plan.

From the Nongroup Health Insurance official web page:
Are there any other options if I can't afford health insurance?
Yes, there are a number of different health programs that might assist you or your family. They are:

  • MassHealth: a comprehensive health insurance program and premium assistance program for parents, children, senior citizens, and persons who are disabled or unemployed. Call 1-800-841-2900 for more information and an application.

  • Children's Medical Security Plan (CMSP): a limited health insurance program for children providing only primary and preventive health care. Call 1-800-909-2677, or in Berkshire, Hampshire and Franklin counties, call 1-800-344-5682

    The CMSP provides access to primary care and preventive services for children and adolescents through a health insurance program through age 18. Download a PDF file for printing and viewing (10K)

  • Medical Security Plan: health insurance for people collecting unemployment benefits. Call 1-800-914-4455 for more information and an application.

  • "Free Care": In addition to the above, if you have a medical emergency and you do not have health insurance, you can ask the hospital for an application for "free care."

See A Consumer's Guide to Getting and Keeping Health Insurance in Massachusetts for more information.

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