Internet Comes to Rescue of 14 Million Uninsured in U.S.; Providing Access to Gov. Health Programs They're No...( Pioneering Nonprofit Sim...),Health

Pioneering Nonprofit Simplifies Enrollment Process

SAN JOSE, Calif., Jan. 16 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Citing studies indicating that nearly 33% of the 47 million uninsured in America are eligible for government-sponsored health insurance but aren't signed up, the Foundation for Health Coverage Education (FHCE) has captured, on a single website database, more than 144 government-sponsored programs to help people in need of health coverage.

Combined with the service capabilities of the nonprofit's 24/7 live U.S. Uninsured Help Line (1-800-234-1317), the goal is to add Internet support in an effort to reduce the bureaucratic steps needed to apply for government-paid health coverage. The move to an Internet-based application process is an effort to help solve a serious problem that experts believe factors into why such a high percentage of the country's uninsured are not availing themselves of the current government assistance programs.

"In Los Angeles County, for example, it usually requires two scheduled appointments at a social services agency and the time and ability of an applicant to answer a 100-question document as a first step to getting enrolled in California's Medi-Cal program. This arduous process in addition to possible transportation issues and literacy challenges keep thousands of people from enrolling," said Phil Lebherz, founder and executive director of FHCE.

Providing access to online applications for every state in the country is the latest advancement in the nonprofit's services which offer practical, easy-to-access tools to educate those who are eligible about their coverage options. Visitors can go to the FHCE website and click on the State by State application link where they can identify government health coverage offerings for the three federal programs (Medicaid, Medicare and Veterans) in addition to each state's individual program applications. Some programs have applications that can be printed o
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