How to buy health insurance yourself
If your employer doesn’t offer insurance, you may be able to buy health insurance directly from an insurance company.
Learn more about how to buy individual health insurance and see sample rates (PDF)
Low-cost options
Here are some low cost options if you can’t afford to buy a comprehensive health plan:
Community clinics offer health care services in most counties and charge based on a sliding-fee scale. Community clinics by county
Direct health care practices do not use insurance. They charge a set monthly fee for all primary care delivered in their office. Learn more and see a list of direct practices
Discount health plans are membership organizations that charge a fee for a list of health care providers who discount their services or products. Learn more
Hospital charity care is provided by all hospitals in Washington state to people who cannot pay their medical bills. Care is provided free or at reduced prices to people with limited income. For more information, talk to your hospital’s billing department.
Local free clinics offer free health care and are often run by volunteers with donated supplies. To find a clinic in your area, call 1-800-562-6900 and ask to speak with a SHIBA volunteer.
Medicaid provides health care and prescription coverage to people who qualify based on their income, assets, health, disability, and family size. Find out if you’re eligible
Are you a veteran?
If you’re a veteran, you may qualify for care and prescription drug coverage through a Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) medical facility. To find out if you are eligible, call the VA Health Benefits Service Center at 1-877-222-VETS (1-877-222-8387). Learn more
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