Healthcare costs have continued to rise over the years, hitting nearly $3.5 trillion in 2017, which represented a 45 percent increase since 2007. Americans are struggling to cope with the escalating costs of medical care and prescriptions. It’s crucial that they find affordable solutions.

This list of helpful resources serves needy American families, veterans, and seniors who aren’t insured or who are having difficulty paying for their medical care.

· FreeClinics.com - Offers a list of free dental and medical clinics; includes detailed information on sliding-scale, income-based, and lower-cost clinics. Also provides a forum where patients can comment on specific clinics they’ve visited.

· MedWise Insurance Advocacy - Here you’ll find a comprehensive list of state and federal programs that you can take advantage of if you’re struggling to pay for medical care or prescription drugs.

· RxHope - Informational resource that assists low-income patients in getting necessary prescriptions.

· NeedyMeds - Non-profit organization offering information on programs that aid people who are unable to afford the costs of medications and healthcare. Offers information on resources for specific diseases.

· MedicareAdvantage.com - Lists state-by-state prescription-assistance programs; includes both resources for both Medicare beneficiaries and residents not enrolled in Medicare.

· Military.com - Summarizes what veterans need to know about their health care, including information on where needy veterans can find assistance with claims.

· Livestrong - Overview of healthcare assistance programs available if you’re not insured (including resources for cancer patients).

· PayingforSeniorCare.com - Lists hundreds of options on ways to get financial aid for long-term senior care; lists federal and state programs; and non-profit organizations that can help.

· InsureKidsNow.gov - Free or low-cost health insurance coverage through Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) for adolescents. Includes state-by-state information on insurance programs your kids may qualify for.

· FreeDentalCare.us - Free and sliding-scale dental resources available in each state with contact information for each.