There are several programs available in Massachusetts that provide free or low-cost health care for various populations. The following are the main ones:

MassHealth Program (Medicaid and CHIP)

Description: MassHealth combines the Medicaid and CHIP programs to provide health insurance for low- and moderate-income individuals, including children, pregnant women, parents, people with disabilities, and seniors needing long-term care.

Who can benefit:

• Children from low-income families.
• Pregnant women.
• Parents or adults caring for children.
• Adults without dependent children (in some cases).
• Persons with disabilities.
• Older adults with long-term care needs.

How to apply: Applications are accepted year-round. You can apply online through the official MassHealth website.

ConnectorCare Program

Description: ConnectorCare is a subsidized health insurance program designed for Massachusetts residents with incomes above the limits for MassHealth participation but insufficient to purchase commercial insurance.

Who can benefit: Individuals with incomes between 138% and 300% of the federal poverty level.

How to Apply: Applications are accepted through the Health Connector, Massachusetts’ official health insurance marketplace. Here you can compare plans, check eligibility for subsidies, and apply.

Health Safety Net (HSN) Program

Description: HSN provides free or low-cost health care for individuals who do not have health insurance and are not eligible for other programs.

Who Eligible: Individuals without health insurance and ineligible for other programs with incomes below 200% of the federal poverty level.

How to Apply: Applications are accepted through Health Safety Net, where you can find a list of qualified health care providers and learn how to apply.

Family Assistance Program

Description: Family Assistance provides health insurance for children and pregnant women with incomes above the limits for MassHealth participation but insufficient to purchase commercial insurance.

Who Can Use: Children and pregnant women with incomes between 200% and 300% of the federal poverty level.

How to Apply: Applications are accepted through the Health Connector, where you can check eligibility and apply.

Prescription Advantage Program

Description: Prescription Advantage helps low-income seniors pay for prescription drugs.

Who Can Use: Individuals age 65 and older with incomes below 60 percent of the Massachusetts median income.

How to Apply: Applications are accepted through Prescription Advantage, where you can learn about the program and apply.

Health Care for All Program

Description: Health Care for All provides information and assistance in navigating the Massachusetts health care system, including assistance in applying for various programs.

Recommendations:

• Check Eligibility. There are certain income and other eligibility requirements for each program. It is recommended that you visit the official websites of the programs or contact local offices for details.
• Get help in applying. Many programs offer free application assistance. The staff can help you understand the requirements and gather the necessary documents.
• Update information regularly. Program terms and conditions can change. Regularly check official websites or contact local offices for the latest information.

Please note that program availability and conditions are subject to change. It is recommended that you regularly check for up-to-date information on official websites or contact local offices for detailed advice.