Focus on Patients

There's a new law in Massachusetts requiring that adults 18 and over have health insurance. There are several low-cost health insurance programs for adults and children who live in Massachusetts. In addition, there are some new options. It is easy to apply and hospital and community health center staff can help explain the choices that may be available for you.

Health insurance can cover the cost of:

  • Doctor visits
  • Hospital stays
  • Mental health, alcohol, and drug abuse treatment
  • Prescription drugs
  • Emergency care

How much will I have to pay?

This depends on your annual household income. Some health insurance only requires small co-payments (money you pay each time you use certain healthcare services). Some health insurance has a monthly premium (money you pay each month) and co-payments.

What do I need to bring when I apply?

  • Proof of your annual household income (payroll stubs, social security, letter from your employer, tax returns)
  • Proof of citizenship and identity if you are a US Citizen (photo ID and birth certificate, or passport)
  • Non-citizens need to bring proof of immigration status, if any

Among the insurance plans available to you are:

  • The MassHealth program.
  • Commonwealth Care - for those individuals earning less than $29,412 a year. Commonwealth Care will either pay the total cost of your health insurance, or a portion of the cost.
  • Those earning more money can get a Commonwealth Choice plan and you'll be responsible for certain monthly premiums and co-pays.

To find out more about specific plans, visit:

To talk to someone in person about the options available to you, and to apply in a coverage plan, your local hospital or health center can help you. Questions? Call 1-877-MA-ENROLL (1-877-623-6765)

Reform Booklets

Below you can view a Reform booklet in a variety of languages.