Health Insurance

Maryland Health Connection 

Maryland Health Connection is a one-stop enrollment resource for Medicaid and private insurance. You can get an estimate of coverage costs before creating an account and applying for a plan.

MHCP provides full health benefits for children up to age 19 and pregnant women of any age who meet income guidelines. 

Medicaid is available to individuals and families with limited income and resources. Learn about Medicaid income qualifications.

Individuals and families eligible for Medicaid or MCHP can enroll for coverage any time of year through Maryland Health Connection. 

Uninsured Marylanders can apply for coverage during open enrollment in the fall, starting in November. Coverage starts on January 1 of the following year. Sometimes there are special enrollment periods that allow you to apply for coverage any time of year. 

Qualifying life events also make you eligible to apply for coverage. These include: 

• Becoming ineligible for Medicaid or MCHP
• Getting married or divorced
• Having a child, adopting a child or placing a child for adoption or in foster care
• Moving to Maryland, and some moves within the state
• COBRA coverage period ends
• Change of citizenship or immigration status
• Incarceration or release 
• Change in status as an American Indian/Alaska Native
• Getting pregnant (Note: you have 90 days to enroll from the time the pregnancy is confirmed.)
• Gaining or losing a dependent
• Certain losses of other health coverage like insurance through your job
• Enrolled in your parent’s plan and you turn 26 years old 

If you leave a job and had medical coverage through your employer, you may be able to temporarily keep your coverage after leaving your job. The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA) provides coverage for a limited period if you apply within 60 days of your last day of work. However, rates may increase from what you paid while employed.

 

Dental Insurance

Dental coverage may also be an option if you don’t have coverage for that through your health plan. Learn more about dental plan options from Maryland Health Connection or search the 211 database for local dental care options.

 

Medicare

Medicare is a federal insurance program for anyone age 65 or older, people under 65 with certain disabilities, and people of any age with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD).

Open enrollment happens on specified days in the fall each year.

If you need help finding the best program for your needs, contact a State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) counselor. They can help you understand costs and coverage, compare options, enroll or change plans and correct billing issues. 

Trained and volunteer counselors are available to provide free assistance in counties throughout Maryland and Baltimore City. Find a counselor near you. 

During Medicare open enrollment, you have the opportunity to review your plan, shop for new coverage and ensure your benefits are the best ones for the upcoming year.

Learn more about Medicare options and costs.

 

Get Help Enrolling For Health Insurance

Navigating insurance coverage can be overwhelming. There are deductibles, in-network and out-of-network providers, co-pays, and other terms that you need to familiarize yourself with to understand medical care costs. 

Add in qualification guidelines, and it can be challenging to know which plan is best for you and your family. 

Dial 2-1-1 to speak to an Information and Referral Specialist. They will connect you to the right resource for your situation, including identifying a local health care navigator. They help determine if you qualify for health savings with a private plan or Medicaid. 

You can also use an authorized insurance broker to find the best health plan for your needs. There is no cost to the individual. 

Find a local health care navigator or an insurance broker.

Your local health department or Department of Social Services may also be a resource for Medicaid questions and pregnant women who need health care coverage. Search for your local agency in the 211 database.

 

Insurance Complaints

The Maryland Insurance Administration (MIA) can help you with many insurance issues. They have tools to help you learn about health insurance companies that are licensed to sell in Maryland.

If you are having trouble with a claim, you can ask for help from the Rapid Response Program at 410-468-2340 or 1-800-492-6116 ext. 2340, or file a formal complaint. Get more information from the  Maryland Insurance Administration.

To learn about these or other health insurance options, call 2-1-1 or search the database.