A New Beginning—Part 6
As Marcus continued his journey of recovery and reintegration, he started feeling unwell, experiencing symptoms like persistent fatigue, frequent headaches, and difficulty sleeping.
Without health insurance, Marcus grew increasingly worried about how he would afford the necessary medical care to address these issues. He knew that access to healthcare was crucial for his ongoing recovery and overall health.
While incarcerated, Marcus had heard about the Giving Insurance Freely for Transition (G.I.F.T.) program offered by Parks Insurance Agency. He remembered a fellow inmate sharing how the program had helped him secure health coverage before his release, enabling him to address his medical needs. Inspired by this story, Marcus was determined to explore the G.I.F.T. program further upon his own release.
Exploring Available Health Insurance Options
Marcus began researching various health insurance options available to him as a returning citizen. He discovered several possibilities:
- Medicaid: A government program providing free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income individuals
- Marketplace Plans: Health insurance plans available through the Affordable Care Act marketplace, with potential funding based on income
- Employer-sponsored Insurance: Coverage offered by an employer, which Marcus could consider in the future once he got a job
- Free Health Insurance Programs: Specialized programs designed to assist formerly incarcerated individuals in obtaining health coverage
Applying for Free Health Insurance
Marcus was intrigued by the G.I.F.T. program and decided to explore it further. He learned that Parks Insurance, certified in all 50 states, could guide him through the application process and help him enroll, even without a current address.
The steps to apply for free insurance through the G.I.F.T. program are easy:
- Make sure you have your full Social Security Number.
- Click on APPLY NOW and complete the online form.
- If you have any questions, call 1-866-505-5383 to speak with a Parks Insurance representative, mentioning the GEO Reentry Connect referral.
- For general questions, download the Frequently Asked Questions.
Marcus appreciated that this insurance differed from Medicaid in two key aspects: he could continue to receive it even after gaining employment. Plus, the agents at Parks are specialists in helping returning citizens.
The Importance of Health Coverage in Recovery
As Marcus reflected on his journey, he realized how crucial health insurance was for his continued success. It provided him with access to necessary medical care, mental health services, and medications that support his recovery and overall well-being.
Marcus is grateful for programs like G.I.F.T. that recognize the unique challenges faced by returning citizens and offer tailored solutions to meet their healthcare needs.
Health Insurance Resources
- HealthCare.gov: Official site for Marketplace health insurance plans. Explore your state’s plans.
- Medicaid.gov: Information on Medicaid eligibility and enrollment. Check your eligibility.
- GEO Reentry Connect: Access to the G.I.F.T. program and other reentry resources.
Sign up for email alerts below to receive the next article as Marcus continues his journey towards a stable and healthy life. You can also download our Get Started Workbook for more information on health insurance options and other reentry resources.
