Health insurance provides financial protection from health care costs by covering some or all of the expenses of routine and emergency medical care. Many Americans receive health insurance as part of a benefit package offered by their employer, but there may be other options available if you do not have insurance through a job, or the coverage available to you is too expensive.
MaineCare (Medicaid)
MaineCare provides free and low-cost health insurance and other help affording health care for people who meet certain requirements, such as income, age, or medical condition.
Medicare
Medicare is a federal program that covers most seniors and many people with disabilities.
For help choosing a plan or understanding your Medicare benefits visit the State Health Insurance Assistance Program ("SHIP”)
Health Insurance for Veterans
The Maine Bureau of Veterans' Services provides information about health coverage for veterans.
Individual Marketplace Coverage
If you do not qualify for MaineCare you may still be eligible to find affordable health coverage through CoverME.gov, Maine’s official Health Insurance Marketplace.
CoverME.gov is designed to help individuals and families find affordable health insurance coverage. Through CoverME.gov, Maine residents can compare qualified health insurance plans that include a comprehensive set of benefits, and apply for help to lower the cost of coverage.
Anyone can apply for coverage through CoverME.gov during the annual Open Enrollment Period which occurs yearly beginning on November 1. Outside of the Open Enrollment Period, consumers must experience a Qualifying Life Event in order to be eligible to enroll. More information about qualifying outside of the Open Enrollment Period is available on the Special Enrollment Periods page.
Visit CoverME.gov for more information about plan options and financial assistance available to make coverage affordable.
Small Businesses Health Plans
Although businesses with 1-49 employees are not required to offer insurance coverage, many small business owners want to provide their employees with health benefits.
The Maine Bureau of Insurance (BOI) provides a Guide to Health Insurance (PDF) specifically for small business owners. Assistance is currently available to help small businesses enrolled in fully-insured, community-rated small group comprehensive health insurance plans. Visit the BOI website for information about the Small Business Health Insurance Premium Support Program.