Daily Expenses and Medical Care

There are programs that can help with basic living expenses and needs

Safe and affordable housing: Care after a brain injury also includes finding safe and affordable housing. Some people may need help with rent, home modifications, or supportive housing services. There are programs that can help, including federal housing assistance through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which offers information on rental assistance and housing programs. You can also look into housing choice vouchers (Section 8) and supportive housing programs in your area. Many states have community specialists who are available to help you access local resources and services, including help with housing, transportation to medical care, paying for utilities, and programs for people living with disabilities. Call 2-1-1 or visit www.211.org or visit findhelp.org to learn more.

State cash assistance programs: Many states and local governments offer cash assistance programs to people with disabilities who have limited income or resources. These programs can help with basic living expenses such as food, housing, and other daily needs. Eligibility rules, benefit amounts, and program names vary widely from state to state. In some places, these programs are part of a state supplement to federal benefits, while in others they are emergency or short-term assistance programs.

Transportation: Some rideshare programs offer services, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles, to help with non-emergency transportation to medical visits, as well as grocery and prescription deliveries. Ask your insurance or care provider about coverage for this service.

Learn more about:

• Programs that offer free or low-cost medications
• Getting help paying for and finding assistive technology

Apply for insurance coverage as soon as possible and appeal if denied at first

Understanding insurance after a brain injury can feel overwhelming, especially when you are trying to figure out what services are covered and how to pay for care. Many people need help covering medical treatment, rehabilitation, and long-term support. Options may include private insurance, employer plans, or public programs, depending on your situation. Coverage, costs, and rules can vary widely, so it is important to review your loved one’s policy, understand expenses like deductibles and copays, and ask for help from hospital staff or others familiar with insurance. Applying for benefits as soon as possible can help you learn what your loved one qualifies for, and if you are denied, you may be able to appeal or update your application.

Learn more about:

• Insurance coverage and how to Navigate the Insurance Maze.
• Advocating for yourself or a loved one
• Workers’ Compensation and what to do if a brain injury happens at work

State and federal programs can help with the costs of brain injury care

The following are some options to explore.

Free and low-cost health centers. There are free and low-cost health centers across the country that provide medical services regardless of a person’s ability to pay. These health centers often use a sliding fee scale that is based on a person’s income. Find a Health Center.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. Your loved one may be eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits. These benefits provide individuals with help covering everything from medical expenses to the costs related to daily living, such as groceries. Learn more about applying for Social Security benefits.

Medicaid. Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that offers medical coverage for people who meet specific income requirements and/or who are living with disabilities. Many states pay family caregivers through self-directed programs, such as Home and Community-Based Services waivers. Further, some Medicaid programs offer Brain Injury or Traumatic Brain Injury Waivers. These waivers include services like rehabilitation, case management, and supported employment. Find the Medicaid agency in your state.

Medicare. Medicare is a federal medical insurance program that provides medical coverage for people ages 65 and older and individuals living with a disability who have sufficient prior work history. Learn more about Medicare.

Compassionate answers. Real support. Every step of the way.

Contact the National Brain Injury Information Center at 1-800-444-6443 to speak to a specialist about:

• Help with care needs
• Legal and financial resources
• Services in your community