American Parkinson's Disease Association
This web site provides information about Parkinson's Disease, the Udall Act, current events, getting involved, fellowships and grants, video rental, chapters, and information and referral center locations.

Family Caregiver Alliance
A caregiver support organization for caregivers of adults with Alzheimer's disease, stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson's disease, ALS and related brain disorders.

Family Caregiver Support Network (FCSN)
A Milwaukee, Wisconsin based free resource center that helps family caregivers of older adults. A family caregiver is a spouse, child, other relative, friend or neighbor who is concerned about, helps or cares for an older adult.

The HollyRod Foundation
Founded in 1997 by NFL quarterback Rodney Peete and actress Holly Robinson Peete in honor of Holly's father, Matthew T. Robinson, Jr, the organization is dedicated to providing medical, physical and emotional support to those suffering with Parkinson's disease. The HollyRod Foundation Web site provides information about Parkinson's Disease, events, contact information and links to other resources.

Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center
The Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center (MAPC) is a National Parkinson Foundation Center of Excellence, and a wonderful resource for people with Parkinson's and their families. Their staff is committed to providing excellence in diagnosis, treatment, research and education for people with Parkinson's disease (PD) and other movement disorders.

Michigan Parkinson Foundation
Localized education and support to people with Parkinson's and related disorders, their loved ones and care partners, and the physicians and other allied health professionals who diagnose and treat those affected by the illness. Monthly Care Partner Support Group.

National Family Caregivers Association
NFCA was the first national, charitable organization dedicated to making life better for all of America's family caregivers. Provides service in the areas of information and education; support and validation; public awareness and advocacy.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
This site contains a pamphlet written by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). NINDS, one of the US Government's 17 National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland, is part of the Public Health Service within the US Department of Health and Human Services.

National Organization For Empowering Caregivers
The NOFEC is dedicated to providing assistance, education, support, respite and referrals for informal family caregivers, as well to promote public awareness about the realities of caregiving. They are committed to encouraging mutual collaboration with other organizations to serve the growing needs of family/informal caregivers.

National Parkinson Foundation
This is the web site for the NPF and has a complete menu of information on Parkinson's disease including support groups, patient services, disease information, clinical studies, a library, news, events, patient services, other links, and more.

Northwest Parkinson's Foundation
One of the most active Parkinson's organizations in the U.S. with an eye on improving the quality of life for those touched by Parkinson's Disease – patients, families and caregivers.

Parkinson's Disease Foundation
This is the web site for the Parkinson's Disease Foundation and contains information about Parkinson's disease, the foundation and an updated news area.

Parkinson's Disease Society
The stated aims of the Parkinson's Disease Society are to help people with Parkinson's disease and their families with the problems associated with the illness, to collect and disseminate information on Parkinson's disease and to encourage and provide funds for research into Parkinson's disease.

The Parkinson Alliance
The Parkinson Alliance was formed in January of 1998 with the aid of the National Parkinson's Foundation. Primarily designed for the Parkinson's disease patient with information on support groups, news, links to other PWP (people with Parkinson's) WebLink sites, jokes, political developments, and news. Informational Sites

Aging Solutions
Advice, comprehensive checklists, and links to key resources ... designed to make it easier for family caregivers to quickly find the information they need ... and avoid missing things that are important in the care of their loved one.

BioMedSearch
This is a free biomedical search site which has all of all of NIH's PubMed documents, plus many more (often in full text). People around the world have turned to the web for health and scientific information. BioMedSearch aggregates a vast number of authoritative documents in one place to make finding and sharing the right information easy, fast and free. It also has account features such as portfolios to save documents, the ability to share documents (and comment on them) between users, and keyword-based alerts.

Caregiver.com
A leading provider of information, support and guidance for family and professional caregivers. Founded in 1995, we produce Today's Caregiver magazine, the first national magazine dedicated to caregivers, the "Sharing Wisdom Caregivers Conferences", and our web site, caregiver.com which includes topic specific newsletters, online discussion lists, back issue articles of Today's Caregiver magazine, chat rooms and an online store. Caregiver Media Group and all of it's products are developed for caregivers, about caregivers and by caregivers.

Caregiver Survival Resources
Jim and Merlene Sherman draw on their 35 years of caregiver experience to write about and provide caregiving presentations and workshops. Through their site they will offer answers to caregiving questions, along with a list of resources and caregiving books.

CARE - for CareGivers of People with Parkinson's
A novel approach to providing information to caregivers. Information on this site is drawn from the messages that are posted to the CARE (Caregivers Are Really Essential) forums. This is information from people who are who are Caregivers, either directly or indirectly, of people who are living with parkinson's.

Doctor's Guide to Parkinson's Disease Information & Resources
Medical information for patients, or friends and parents of patients, diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. The site contains sections on Medical News and Alerts, Parkinson's Disease Information, Discussion Groups and Newsgroups links to other Related Sites, and a sign up to receive e-mail allowing the individual to stay abreast of Parkinson's disease developments on the Internet.

Drug Watch
The drugs used to treat Parkinson's disease, such as Mirapex, Levodopa, and Requip can have potentially harmful side effects if not monitored closely. Additionally, when these drugs are prescribed in combination with drugs for other disorders, the risks for serious illness or even death increases greatly. Drug Watch is a Web site dedicated to educating the public about the details of prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as aiding in the protection of patients and consumers by informing them of any associated side effects.

Empowering Caregivers
A spiritual approach to Aging, Caregiving, End-Of-Life Issues. The site features: A free newsletter, frequently updated Caregiving articles, journal exercises created to help caregivers express writing about the issues that challenge tem most, a monthly spotlight on a caregiver of the Month, and a Healing Circle which promotes the power of prayer in large numbers.

Family CareGiving 101
Created by the National Family Caregivers Association and the National Alliance for Caregiving, this web site provides valuable tips to help caregivers self-identify (a critical first step) and gain resources on a variety of topics such as counseling, training, and how to navigate the healthcare maze.

Health Finder - Government Access to Libraries
Healthfinder is a free gateway to reliable consumer health and human services information developed by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Healthfinder can lead you to selected online publications, clearinghouses, databases, web sites, and support and self-help groups, as well as the government agencies and not-for-profit organizations that produce reliable information for the public.

InteliHealth Caregiver Zone
A great caregiver's page — providing tips, articles, coping solutions and more. InteliHealth is a joint venture of Aetna U.S. Healthcare® and Johns Hopkins University and Health System. Established in 1996, InteliHealth has become one of the leading health information companies in the world.

National Library of Medicine
The National Library of Medicine's MEDLINEplus information pages are designed to direct you to resources containing information that will help you research your health questions. They are designed for educational use only and are not intended to replace advice from a health professional.

Medicine Net
A network of U.S. board-certified physician writers and scientists providing in depth medical information for consumers through the interactive web site.

Parkinsons disease Control
Created by Healthology, this site features content created by PD thought leaders and medical experts to provide a full range of information about Parkinson's disease, current treatment options, the latest research, and more. Also, patients and their caregivers offer personal testimonials about how they are able to cope with Parkinson's disease. Parkinsons Control.com features streaming video programs with full text transcripts, which creates a fully interactive experience for anyone seeking information on Parkinson's disease.

Parkinson's Training for Caregivers
The Parkinson's Training for Caregivers project is a free online course developed to train caregivers in caring for those with Parkinson's Disease in long-term care settings.

Parkinson's Unity Walk
The Parkinson's Unity Walk is an event held in New York City in the fall of each year to increase public awareness about PD and raise funds for research.

The Parkinson's Web
A national advisory board oversees this site that includes sections titled: A Parkinson's Primer, Diagnosing Parkinson's, Medical Treatment, Mind and Body, Coping, Support Resources, Recent Research, New Publications, Bibliography, Glossary, Surgical Procedures, Massachusetts General Hospital Neurology Department, Questions, and links to other sites through the Parkinson's Disease Web. There is also a Neurology WebForum sponsored by the Massachusetts General Hospital Neurology Department.

Parkinson's disease Care on RemedyFind
RemedyFind is a free, unbiased site (not sponsored by drug companies etc.) where individuals can rate the effectiveness of the Parkinson s Disease treatments they have tried.

U.S. News & World Report Online Guide to Parkinson's disease
US News & World Report and Stanford University Hospital & Clinics have launched a comprehensive guide to Parkinson's disease. Topics covered include eating, exercise, sexual difficulty, sleep disturbances, and coping with depression.

Worldwide Education and Awareness for Movement Disorders
One of the Internet's most comprehensive resources for movement disorder information and the hub of movement disorder activities on the Web. The site's mission is to increase awareness of neurologic movement disorders and make early diagnosis, up-to-date treatment, and patient support a reality for all people living with movement disorders.

Senior Information

American Association of Retired Persons
A nonprofit, nonpartisan association dedicated to shaping and enriching the experience of aging for its members and for all Americans.

www.benefitscheckup.org
BenefitsCheckUp helps find programs for people ages 55 and over that may pay for some of their costs of prescription drugs, health care, utilities, and other essential items or services.

Last Acts
Last Acts is an unprecedented national effort to raise awareness of the need to improve care of the dying and to share issues and ideas at the national, state and local levels.

Guide to Retirement Living
The Guide to Retirement Living Online is the Internet version of the mid-atlantic regional publications, The Guide to Retirement Living. Each edition features a complete listing of all senior residential communities, long-term care facilities, and home care services. The Guide also features objective articles by national experts in the field of aging on issues that affect seniors, caregivers, and professionals.

MyZiva.net
MyZiva.net - The Complete Nursing Home Guide, is a free, objective and easy-to-use nursing home resource for prospective residents, caregivers and healthcare professionals. Help in finding and comparing nursing homes, nationally.

Federal Government Agencies

Health Care Financing Administration
In addition to providing health insurance, HCFA also performs a number of quality-focused activities, including regulation of laboratory testing (CLIA), surveys and certification of health care facilities (including nursing homes, home health agencies, and intermediate care facilities for the mentally retarded), development of coverage policies, and quality-of-care improvement.

Administration on Aging
In response to the growing number of older people and their diverse needs, the Older Americans Act of 1965 as Amended calls for a range of programs that offer services and opportunities for older Americans, especially those at risk of losing their independence. The Act established the Administration on Aging (AoA), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, which is headed by the Assistant Secretary for Aging in the Department.

Social Security Online
Provides information about Benefit Information Publications (retirement, survivors, disability and supplemental security income publications) and how to apply for social security retirement benefits, etc.

Medicare Info for Caregivers
Includes information on navigating throigh Medicare, healthcare services, links to partner organizations that assist caregivers, and personal caregiver anecdotes.

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
The NINDS, an agency of the U.S. Federal Government and a component of the National Institutes of Health and the U.S. Public Health Service, is a lead agency for the Congressionally designated Decade of the Brain, and the leading supporter of biomedical research on disorders of the brain and nervous system.

New Medicare Prescription Coverage Information
From the Official U.S. Government Site for People with Medicare, nformation about Medicare prescription drug coverage, what it is, who can get it, when you can get it, how can you get it and why you should get it.

Miscellaneous

American Academy of Neurology
The American Academy of Neurology is a medical specialty society established to advance the art and science of neurology, and thereby promote the best possible care for patients with neurological disorders.

Brainnet.org - Central Nervous System & Brain Disorders Network
This WEB site is devoted to helping people and their caregivers better understand the clinical advances both being studied in the laboratory and those that are available now.

Center for Neurologic Study
The Center for Neurologic Study Home Page is designed to present our current activities on the WWW. CNS is a non profit organization dedicated to research and treatment of neurological diseases. The Center was founded in 1979 with the intent of helping patients and families who have been affected by presently incurable neurologic disease. To accomplish this the Center focused on experimental treatment and patient / family support and education.

Society for Neuroscience
The Society for Neuroscience is the world's largest organization of scientists and physicians dedicated to understanding the brain, spinal cord and peripheral nervous system. Neuroscientists investigate the molecular and cellular levels of the nervous system; the systems within the brain, such as vision and hearing; and behavior produced by the brain. This research provides the basis for understanding the medical fields concerned with treating nervous system disorders.

The Partnership for Prescription Assistance [pparx.org]
The Partnership for Prescription Assistance helps match patients who cannot afford medication to prescription assistance programs that provide free or nearly free medicines to eligible patients.

National Organization for Rare Disorders [rarediseases.org]
The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) is a federation of more than 130 nonprofit, voluntary health organizations serving people with rare disorders. The NORD Web site includes information on medication assistance programs and networking programs, a resource guide and links to other online resources.

Contact NORD directly:

NORD's Medication Assistance Programs
National Organization for Rare Disorders
55 Kenosia Avenue
PO Box 1968
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
Toll-free: 800-999-6673 (voicemail only)
Phone: 203-744-0100
TDD: 203-797-9590
Fax: 203-798-2291
E-mail: orphan@rarediseases.org

Information on financial aid for medical treatments can also be obtained from the following patient advocacy organizations:

Family Voices offers resources and communication opportunities on the Internet for people with cognitive and other disabilities, for their families, and for those who provide services and support. This resource has a special interest in the care of children. Resources state by state.

Family Voices [familyvoices.org]
2340 Alamo SE, Suite 102
Albuquerque, NM 87106
Toll-free: 888-835-5669
Phone: 505-872-4774
Fax: 505-872-4780
Online E-mail Contact Form: http://familyvoices.org/contact.php

Resources state by state [familyvoices.org]
Note: Special interest in children

Your child may be eligible to receive social security. To find out if your child qualifies a publication from the Social Security Administration(SSI) [ssa.gov] outlines who may qualify, and how to get this money. It also provides links to the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in each state.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for other NIH studies on Panic Disorder.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for other NIH studies on Eating Disorders.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for other NIH studies on Depression.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for other NIH studies on Bipolar Disorder (Manic-Depressive Illness).

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for other NIH studies on Autism Spectrum Disorders (Pervasive Developmental Disorders).

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for other NIH studies on Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD, ADD).

Intravenous Immunoglobulin for PANDAS (Pediatric Autoimmune Neuropsychiatric Disorders Associated With Streptococcal Infections).
Interventional study. Background: - Some children experience a sudden onset of symptoms similar to those found in obsessive-compulsive disorder that may be caused by the body's reaction to an infection with streptococcal bacteria, most commonly seen as strep throat or scarlet fever. Ages 4-12. Locations in New Haven, CT; Bethesda, MD; Oklahoma City, OK.

• PET Brain and Whole Body Distribution Studies for Nociceptin/Orphanin FQ Peptide (NOP) Receptor Using [11C]NOP-1A.
  Interventional study. Background: - A small brain protein called nociceptin/orphanin FQ peptide (NOP) receptor may be involved in several brain diseases such as anxiety, depression, drug abuse, and seizures. Ages 18-50. Location in Bethesda, MD.

• Brain Markers of Anxiety Disorders and SSRI Treatment in Children and Adolescents.
  Interventional study. This study will attempt to identify gene and brain activity markers that predict whether children and adolescents with anxiety disorders will respond to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medications. Ages 7-19. Location in Ann Arbor, MI.

• PET Whole Body Distribution Studies Using [11C]CUMI.
  Evaluation study. Background: - Researchers studying new treatments for major depressive disorder are looking at how medications to treat depression act on the brain chemical serotonin, which interacts with specific serotonin receptors on brain cells. Ages 18-65. Location in Bethesda, MD.

• Effects of a CRF1 Receptor Antagonist on Human Startle in Normal Female Volunteers.
  Evaluation study. Background: - Research has shown that the hormone corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) is involved in stress and anxiety, and that drugs that block the effect of CRH in the body can reduce anxiety. Ages 21-50. Location in Bethesda, MD.

• Anxiety and Recurrent Abdominal Pain in Children.
  Interventional study. This study aims to determine whether citalopram is a useful, well-tolerated, and safe treatment for children and adolescents ages 7 to 18 years with functional abdominal pain. Ages 7-18. Location in Columbus, OH.

• RCT of an Acceptance-based Behavior Therapy for GAD.
  Interventional study. The purpose of this study is to determine whether acceptance-based behavior therapy for GAD results in greater symptom reduction and increased quality of life than applied relaxation. Ages 18 and over. Location in Boston, MA.

• Neural Functioning Underlying Anxiety and Its Treatment (The INSULA Study).
  Interventional study. This study will examine the effects of cognitive behavioral therapy on brain function in people with anxiety disorders. Ages 18-55. Location in La Jolla, CA.

• Efficacy and Feasibility of a Personalized Treatment for Depression With Co-Occurring Anxiety.
  Interventional study. This study will examine the feasibility and efficacy of a personalized psychotherapy treatment for people with depression and co-occurring anxiety. Ages 18-65. Location in Pittsburgh, PA.

• Examining Social, Emotional, and Cognitive Functioning in People With Fragile X and Down Syndromes.
  Evaluation study. By testing physiological responses to anxiety in people with nervous system developmental disorders, this study will identify specific physiological characteristics associated with response to anxiety treatments. Ages 5-25. Location in Sacramento, CA.

• Examining Long-Term Effects and Neural Mediators of Behavioral Treatments for Social Anxiety Disorder.
  Interventional study. This study will compare the effects that two types of behavioral therapy have on brain function in people with social anxiety disorder. Ages 18-45. Location in Los Angeles, CA.

• Identifying Brain and Genetic Markers of Sertraline Treatment Response in People With Social Anxiety Disorder.
  Interventional study. This study will attempt to identify gene and brain activity markers that predict whether people with social anxiety disorder will respond to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor medications. Ages 18-55. Location in Ann Arbor, MI.

• Effectiveness of a Family-Based Treatment for Preventing Anxiety Disorders in At-Risk Children.
  Interventional study. This study will test the effectiveness of a family-based behavioral program for preventing anxiety disorders in at-risk children. Ages 7-12. Location in Baltimore, MD.

• Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Trial of Riluzole in Pediatric Bipolar Disorder.
  Interventional study. Pediatric Bipolar Disorder (BD) is uncommon in children. Ages 9-17. Location in Bethesda, MD.

• Assessing Different Methods of Anxiety Care in Pediatric Settings.
  Interventional study. This study will compare the effectiveness of delivering cognitive behavioral therapy for children with anxiety disorders through in-person contact versus through workbooks and telephone communication. Ages 8-13. Location in San Diego, CA.

• Effectiveness of Emotion-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Treating Adolescents With Emotional Disorders.
  Interventional study. This study will evaluate the effectiveness of an emotion-focused cognitive behavioral treatment program for adolescents with anxiety or unipolar depressive disorders. Ages 12-17. Location in Miami, FL.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy With Parental Involvement for Treating Children With Anxiety Disorders.
  Interventional study. This study will compare the effectiveness of individual cognitive behavioral therapy with two distinct types of parent involvement versus individual cognitive behavioral therapy without parent involvement in treating children with anxiety disorders. Ages 8-11. Location in Miami, FL.

• Antidepressant Treatment Plus Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Generalized Anxiety Disorder in Older Adults.
  Interventional study. This study will assess whether adding cognitive behavioral therapy to the antidepressant escitalopram is effective in reducing anxiety in older adults with generalized anxiety disorder. Ages 60 and over. Locations in San Diego, CA; St. Louis, MO.

• School-Based Treatment for Anxious Children.
  Interventional study. This study will determine the effectiveness of a school-based cognitive behavior therapy in urban, predominantly low-income, African-American children diagnosed with an anxiety disorder. Ages 7-17. Location in Baltimore, MD.

• Evaluating the Effects of Stress in Pregnancy.
  Evaluation study. This study will evaluate pregnant women with a past or current diagnosis of depression or anxiety to gain a better understanding of how these disorders can affect an infant's development, both during and after pregnancy. Ages 18-45. Location in Atlanta, GA.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for other NIH studies on Anxiety Disorders.

Happy Birthday Ekikaseven

This is a really good memo....... I guess sometimes we forget that God will take care of things if we will let go and let him.

A popular way to get rid of gnats using vinegar involves a small empty bottle. Fill the bottle with vinegar, almost to the top. Put the cap on securely, and poke a few holes in the cap. Gnats are attracted to the vinegar, and will climb in. Once they climb in, they won’t be able to get back out. If the gnats are in more than one spot in the house, fill up several bottles and place them where they are collecting in groups. Let these bottles sit for a few hours, then simply throw them out with the trash. Repeat the process if needed.

Click Here For Website

Patient Advocate Foundation's Co-Pay Relief (CPR)
The CPR program provides co-payment assistance to insured Americans who financially and medically qualify. Click here to start your application

Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)
PAF is a national 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization which provides professional case management services to Americans with chronic, life threatening and debilitating illnesses. Click here to seek assistance from a case manager

Osteoporosis Resources and Programs

National Osteoporosis Foundation
Phone: 800-231-4222
www.nof.org

American Osteopathic Association
Phone: 800-621-1773
www.osteopathic.org

American Academy of Nurse Practitioners
Phone: 512-442-4262
www.aanp.org

American College of Rheumatology
Phone: 404-633-3777
www.rheumatology.org

American Bone Health
Phone: 888-266-3015
www.americanbonehealth.org

Other Resources and Programs

Patient Advocate Foundation's National Underinsured Resource Directory
www.patientadvocate.org/help4u.php

Clinical Trials
www.clinicaltrials.gov

America's Baby Cancer Foundation
Phone: 714-655- 4431
www.babycancer.com

Children's Brain Tumor Foundation
Phone: 866-228-4673
www.cbtf.org

Foundation for Children with Cancer
Phone: 314-843-9300
www.childrenwithcancer.org

Jake Owen Raborn Foundation
Phone: 888-356-5253
www.jakesfoundation.org

The National Children's Cancer Society
Phone: 800-532-6459
www.nationalchildrenscancersociety.org

Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation
Phone: 800-253-6530
www.pbtfus.org

Patient Advocate Foundation's Co-Pay Relief (CPR)
The CPR program provides co-payment assistance to insured Americans who financially and medically qualify. Click here to start your application

Patient Advocate Foundation (PAF)
PAF is a national 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization which provides professional case management services to Americans with chronic, life threatening and debilitating illnesses. Click here to seek assistance from a case manager

Autoimmune Disorders Resources and Programs

American Autoimmune Related Disease Association, Inc.
Phone: 800-598-4668
www.aarda.org

Other Resources and Programs

Patient Advocate Foundation's National Underinsured Resource Directory
www.patientadvocate.org/help4u.php

Clinical Trials
www.clinicaltrials.gov

Senior Information

Medicare Issues Hotline
1-800-633-4227
This federal government Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services hotline has information on Medicare insurance supplements, claims, general information on Medicare, and Medicare fraud and abuse.

Minnesota Board on Aging
(651) 431-2500 or 1-800-882-6262
The Minnesota Board on Aging develops, coordinates, evaluates, and administers federal and state funds for the aging, makes grants to 7 area agencies on aging and to nonprofit agencies, and serves as an advocate for older persons. The Board partners with many other groups to provide the web site www.MinnesotaHelp.info. This lists community resources, including services for seniors, as well as caregivers and persons with disabilities. In addition, the Board publishes "Health Care Choices for Minnesotans on Medicare." This booklet provides a wide variety of information useful to seniors including listing all the plans that can supplement Medicare in Minnesota and each plan's coverage. It is on the Minnesota Board on Aging web site. Free copies are available from the Senior LinkAge Line® at 1-800-333-2433.

Social Security Administration
1-800-772-1213
Provides public information materials about the Social Security Administration and supplemental security programs, as well as information on eligibility for Medicare. Free pamphlets on Social Security disability benefits and supplemental security income are available through this line.

Senior LinkAge Line® 1-800-333-2433
The Senior LinkAge Line® is a nonprofit telephone and referral service which is free to seniors and their families. Seniors unsure of where to call with a health insurance or Medicare-related question are encouraged to call the Senior LinkAge Line®. Questions can also be e-mailed to senior.linkage@state.mn.us. They also help seniors and others locate lower cost prescription drugs through a service called RX Connect. Phones are answered from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Free or Reduced Cost Health Care

Assured Access (formerly Assured Care)
(612) 348-6141
Assured Access is a Hennepin County program available to Hennepin County residents who do not qualify for other public programs. There are eligibility requirements. Members receive a discount on bills for health care services provided by certain clinics. There is no cost to enroll and no monthly premium.

Children's Defense Fund - Minnesota
(651) 227-6121
The Children's Defense Fund - Minnesota has compiled a Minnesota Low-Cost Health Care Directory to help uninsured or poorly insured families with children understand some of their health care options. Clinics are listed by county. Many of the listed clinics provide service to adults as well.

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services, metro area
(651) 297-1316 or TTY 888-206-6513
Their booklet "Financial Resources for Hearing Aids" lists organizations to contact for lower cost or free hearing aids/and or assistive listening devices. There are eligibility requirements. Other helpful publications are also available. Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services is part of the Minnesota Department of Human Services.

Essential Community Providers
These clinics provide care to high-risk and special needs individuals and to individuals with limited access to health care services. Patients pay based on a sliding fee scale. The Minestoa Department of Health, Managed Care Systems Section web site maintains a list of these clinics.

Mid-Minnesota Family Medicine Center
(320) 240-3157 or 1-800-575-2982
The Mid-Minnesota Family Medicine Center clinic is located in St. Cloud but offers health services on a sliding fee scale basis to anyone who does not have health insurance. Appointments are required and clients must bring proof of income.

Migrant Health Service, Inc.
(218) 236-6502 or 1-800-842-8693
There are seven health centers and two mobile units that offer low-cost health care on a sliding fee scale during the summer months to farm workers in certain counties. They also have programs to assist victims of abuse. The Grafton, Moorhead, Rochester, and Wilmar clinics are open all year.

Minnesota Department of Health
(651) 201-5414 or 1-877-676-5414
The Refugee Health Program provides a directory of "Health Resources Serving Diverse Cultural Communities." The directory lists by counties resources for health and dental services, mental health, home care, services for battered women and those sexually assaulted, and some social services. Many of these resources provide services at a lower cost and are available to refugees and others. The counties currently listed are: Anoka, Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Kandiyohi, Olmsted, Otter Tail, Ramsey, Rice, Scott, Stearns, and Washington. Call (651) 201-5414 for a printed copy of the directory.

Neighborhood Health Care Network (formerly known as Community Clinic Consortium)
(651) 489-2273 or 1-866-489-4899
The Neighborhood Health Care Network is an alliance of community clinics in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. Network members provide a wide range of services including primary/preventive services, prenatal care, reproductive services, and dental care. Check to see whether the clinic offers a sliding fee scale, offers a fee payment schedule, and accepts public assistance, MinnesotaCare® and other private insurance plans. Hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Portico Healthnet (formerly Metro East Health Program)
(651) 603-5100
Portico Healthnet is for residents of Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey and Washington counties who don't qualify for other public programs. For $25 to $50 a month (depending on household size and income) all covered health care services are paid. Hospital, emergency room, and dental are not covered. There may be a waiting list to join.

Sage Screening Program (formerly the Minnesota Breast and Cervical Cancer Control Program) 1-888-643-2584
The Sage Screening Program provides free breast and cervical cancer screening and free or low-cost colposcopies to Minnesota women age 40 and over who are uninsured or underinsured and who meet income eligibility. Services are provided at participating facilities.

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and Services Administration
Federal Community Health Centers provide preventive and primary care health services. They serve "populations with limited access to health care. These include low income populations, the uninsured, those with limited English proficiency, migrant and seasonal farmworkers, individuals and families experiencing homelessness, and those livingin public housing." Services are provided on a sliding fee scale. To find a health center near you, click on Get Health Care on the web site and enter your zip code.

United Way 211 - First Call for Help
Use this number to reach your local First Call for Help: 211 or 1-800-543-7709
Please note that 211 works from many but not all cell phones.
United Way 211, formerly United Way - First Call for Help, is a community answer line that provides you with information about, and refers you to, individual and family services. Trained volunteers can give you information on health services, health issues, counseling, child care, legal help, and more. The phone line is answered 24 hours a day. You can download their database to your computer or to a CD and conduct your own search also.

Lower Cost Dental Services

Contact these organizations to locate lower cost dental care in your area.

Minnesota Dental Association
(612) 767-8400 or 1-800-950-3368

Minneapolis District Dental Society
(651) 631-9845

St. Paul District Dental Society
(651) 697-0831

Neighborhood Health Care Network
(651) 489-2273 or 1-866-489-4899
Some of the Neighborhood Health Care Network member clinics provide dental care. Check to see whether the clinic has a sliding fee scale and accepts public assistance and MinnesotaCare® or other private insurance plans.

University of Minnesota Dental Clinic
(612) 625-2495
Supervised dental work at the University of Minnesota Dental Clinic is done by students in their last two years of dental school. For orthodontic work call (612) 625-6444. Supervised orthodontic work is done by residents who have finished their dentistry schooling and are now specializing in orthodontics.

Health Care for Children with Disabilities

TEFRA
As a component of Medical Assistance, TEFRA helps families cover health care costs for their severely disabled children who would otherwise require institutional-level care. Eligibility is based on the child's income, assets, and level of disability, and other requirements. Eligibility is not based on the parent's income or assets. Contact your county human service agency for more information. A list of county agencies can be found in the "Guide to Minnesota's Public Health Care Programs" or call the Minnesota Health Information Clearinghouse 651 201-5178 or 1-800-657-3793.

Minnesota Children with Special Health Needs
(651) 201-3650 or 1-800-728-5420
The Minnesota Children with Special Health Needs section of the Minnesota Department of Health is a referral resource for Minnesota families with children under 21 who have disabling or potentially disabling conditions or chronic illnesses.

Shriners Hospital for Children - Twin Cities
(612) 596-6100
The Shriners Twin Cities Unit provides care to children with neuromusculoskeletal conditions who live in Minnesota and some surrounding states and Canadian provinces. The only criterion for admission is that the child has a treatable orthopedic condition. All care provided at or authorized by the hospital is provided at no charge to patients, parents, third party payers, or governmental agencies.

General Insurance Information

Minnesota Department of Commerce
(651) 296-4026 or 1-800-657-3602
The Minnesota Department of Commerce regulates insurance companies and insurance agents. They do not regulate Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs). This department answers questions and addresses complaints about the companies it regulates.

Minnesota Department of Health
(651) 201-5100 or 1-800-657-3916
The Managed Care Systems section of the Minnesota Department of Health regulates Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs). This department answers questions and addresses complaints about the companies it regulates.

www.minnesotahealthinfo.org
This web site provides information on buying health coverage, on comparing the cost and quality of health plans, doctors, hospitals and nursing homes, information on assuring quality care, and on a wide variety of other health care related information.

Agency for Health Care Policy and Research
1-800-358-9295
The federal Agency for Health Care Policy and Research publications cover topics such as medical treatment effectiveness, health care costs and utilization, health care expenditures, health information systems, health technology assessment, clinical practice guidelines, and funding opportunities for grants and contracts. Single copies of publications are available free upon request from the agency.

America's Health Insurance Plans (formerly Health Insurance Association of America)
1-202-778-3200
The America's Health Insurance Plans association publishes a variety of consumer guidebooks on topics such as health insurance, long-term care, and Medicare supplements.

Health Insurance Counseling Program
1-800-333-2433
The Health Insurance Counseling Program for seniors provides information, counseling, and public education about health insurance. It is Minnesota's State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP).

Minnesota Insurance HelpLine
The Insurance HelpLine provides general information on insurance, insurance companies, and suggestions on how to go about finding insurance coverage. Contact them through the Insurance Federation of Minnesota. Click on the Insurance HelpLine link on the left side of the page and leave an e-mail asking your questions.

National Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions
(703) 684-1355
The National Association of Children's Hospitals and Related Institutions provides information on children's hospitals and what to consider when a child will be hospitalized. Click on About Us, About Children's Hospitals, Acts and Trends for A Parent's Guide to Choosing Hospital Care for Children.

National Association of Insurance Commissioners
The National Association of Insurance Commissioners web site provides information about different types of insurance including health insurance. See "Consumers" for general health insurance information and see "Insure U Get Smart about Insurance" to see information in "Life Situations - Tips and Information." The Association also publishes booklets on insurance including Medigap and long-term care. To request one free copy of "Choosing a Medigap Policy" and "A Shopper's Guide to Long-Term Care Insurance" call the order line at 816-783-8300 or order on line.

National Health Information Center, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
1-800-336-4797
The National Health Information Center is a health information referral service which locates organizations as resources for health professionals and consumers who have health-related questions. Also see www.healthfinder.gov for publications, health information, healthy living and prevention information, and lists of toll-free numbers to organizations that provide health-related information, education and support. The database for publications lists thousands of on-line federal health publications. The NHIC is also accessible via e-mail at: info@nhic.org.

Prescription Drugs

RxConnect
1-800-333-2433
RxConnect is a service that helps Minnesota residents find programs that provide free or discounted prescription drugs. Most of these programs have income and eligibility requirements. Applications are provided. The service is available to all ages and is provided by the Minnesota Board on Aging through the Senior LinkAge Line®.

Minnesota RxConnect
Minnesota RxConnect is the state of Minnesota web site which helps Minnesotans make informed decisions regarding accessing lower cost prescription drugs locally. Minnesota RxPrice Compare shows the local Minnesota price of 400 drugs. Consumers can search for their prescription drugs by city, county or zip code. It lists the drugs that are available and their prices. The site includes general safety and savings tips when using and purchasing prescription drugs. As of March 1, 2010 the MinnesotaRxConnect site will no longer provide a way to order from Canadian pharmacies as demand for this service has diminished. See their site for additional information.

Medicare Prescription Drug Benefit (Part D)
On January 1, 2006, Medicare began offering a drug benefit. Contact the Senior LinkAge Line at 1-800-333-2433 or Medicare at 1-800-633-4227 (TTY: 1-877-486-2048) for questions about Medicare Part D. The Minnesota Board on Aging and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services provide updates on this benefit. Certain enrollees are eligible for a partial or full subsidy to help pay for this drug benefit. This subsidy is sometimes referred to as the "Low Income Subsidy" or "Extra Help."

Patient Assistance Programs
Many pharmaceutical companies provide reduced price or free drugs to eligible people. Two examples of Internet sites to use to look up information about patient assistance programs are www.rxassist.org and www.needymeds.com. You can check to see if your prescription drugs are available at a lower cost and if you are eligible for the programs. On the NeedyMeds web site, click on Generic Name List, or Brand Name List, or Company List to see if your drug is listed and for information about the specific prescription assistance programs. Most of the prescription assistance programs have eligibility requirements. Both of these sites also provide other helpful information regarding getting prescription drugs.

Additional prescription drug resources and information are available in the publication "Low Cost Options for Prescription Drugs" available through the Minnesota Health Information Clearinghouse, Minnesota Department of Health, (651) 201-5178 or 1-800-657-3793.

Small Employer Information

A print copy of "Guide to the Small Employer Health Benefit Plan Market" is available through the Minnesota Health Information Clearinghouse, (651) 201-5178 or 1-800-697-3793. The guide provides answers to initial questions small employers have about the small employer health plan market. It lists companies that are licensed to sell health coverage to small employers in Minnesota.

For more information contact the Minnesota Health Information Clearinghouse:

By telephone:
(651) 201-5178 or 1-800-657-3793
TDD: (651) 201-5797

By mail:
Minnesota Department of Health
Minnesota Health Information Clearinghouse
Compliance Monitoring Division
85 East Seventh Place, P.O. Box 64882
St. Paul, Minnesota 55164-0882

By e-mail:
health.clearinghouse@state.mn.us

By fax:
(651) 201-5186

WIC — Women, Infants and Children Program

WIC is a nutrition program that helps pregnant women, new mothers, and young children eat well, learn about nutrition, and stay healthy. Nutrition education and counseling, nutritious foods, and help accessing health care are provided to low-income women, infants, and children through the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program, popularly known as WIC.

Click here for information about WIC Eligibility Requirements.

Click here to find your closest WIC clinic.

Click here for information about the New WIC Food Packages.

For information on how to apply for WIC
Call (toll free): 1 (800) 942-3678 

WIC Eligibility

Who is eligible and who can apply?

• Pregnant women
• Women who are breastfeeding a baby under 1 year of age
• Women who have had a baby in the past six months
• Parents, step-parents, guardians, and foster parents of infants and children under the age of 5 can apply for their children

If you have a job or if you have private health insurance, you can still apply for WIC. You do not have to be married to apply for WIC.

For more eligibility requirements, see below.

What about fathers?

Fathers of children under the age of 5 are encouraged to enroll their children in the WIC program. Just like any other parent or guardian, fathers can bring their children to appointments, attend nutrition classes, and receive and redeem benefits for their children. Active participation by fathers is a great help in keeping WIC children healthy.

Are services free?

• Yes! All WIC services are free to those who are eligible.

Who provides the services?

• The Department of State Health Services runs the Texas WIC program and provides funds to agencies across the state who run local WIC offices. All kinds of agencies offer WIC services such as local health departments, county and city agencies, migrant health centers, community action agencies, and hospitals.
• Many local offices are open in the evenings and on Saturdays so that clients do not have to miss work.
• There are over 300 full-time, permanent WIC offices and more than 200 other part-time satellite sites, so finding a WIC clinic close to you shouldn't be a problem. Click here to find your closest WIC clinic.

Eligibility Requirements

• Meet the income guidelines. Households with incomes at or below 185 percent of the federal poverty income level are eligible. WIC determines income based on gross income. WIC counts all of the members of a household, related or unrelated. WIC counts an unborn baby as a household member. Click to view Income Eligibility Guidelines (45K, PDF) viewing information .
• Be at nutritional risk. WIC clients receive an initial health and diet screening at a WIC clinic to determine nutritional risk. WIC uses two main categories of nutritional risk: (1) medically-based risks such as a history of poor pregnancy outcome, underweight status, or iron-deficiency anemia, and (2) diet-based risks such as poor eating habits that can lead to poor nutritional and health status. Clients will be counseled at WIC about these risks and the outcome influenced by nutrition education and nutritious foods provided by WIC.
• Live in Texas. WIC clients usually receive services in the county where they live. U.S. citizenship is not a requirement for eligibility.
• Clients must apply in person except in certain limited cases.

How to Become a WIC Client:

• Are you a pregnant woman, breastfeeding a baby less than one year of age, a postpartum woman (one who had a baby within the last six months), or have an infant or a child who is less than 5 years old? If yes, call 1 (800) WIC-FORU [1 (800) 942-3678] Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. to obtain the telephone number and address of a WIC clinic that is close to where you live.
• Call or go by the clinic to make an appointment for a pregnant woman, breastfeeding woman, postpartum woman, infant, or child less than 5 years of age.
• At the time of your appointment, bring documentation of your household's source of income or wages. This applies to all members of the household. Some examples of documentation include a paycheck stub, a current tax return, a letter from an employer, a Social Security check, a child-support check, or self-employed accounting records. Applicants and certain family members who receive Medicaid, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, or Food Stamps automatically meet income eligibility by bringing acceptable proof of their participation in one of these programs—they do not have to bring other income documents.
• At the time of your appointment, bring documentation of where you live with your current physical address, such as a utility or credit-card bill, rent receipt, or business letter.
• At the time of your appointment, bring one document of identification for each person applying for WIC benefits and the adult responsible for the benefits. Examples of acceptable identification documents are a birth certificate, a driver's license, an immunization card, an employee or school identification card with picture, a Social Security card, or hospital records.
• During the appointment the applicant will undergo a simple health screen including height and weight measurement, a finger stick to screen for low iron, a medical and health history and a diet recall and history to determine nutritional risk.
• At the end of his or her appointment, an applicant will receive counseling and referral to appropriate health and human services, if applicable. WIC Program eligibility will also be determined. Food benefits will be provided to those eligible.
• If you have any questions about the above information, lack some item above, or have a special situation, call or go by the clinic before your appointment so the staff may assist you with your situation. Not bringing in all the documentation at the time of your appointment may delay eligibility determination and benefits. A complete screen must be done before eligibility can be determined.

What does WIC provide and who receives the benefits?

WIC provides nutrition education, nutritious foods, referrals to health and human services, breastfeeding support, and immunizations (at some clinics). Food benefits are issued for each client. Both fathers and mothers can receive and spend the benefits for their children.

WIC Nutrition Education

Clients receive individual nutrition counseling and nutrition classes. Many clinics offer classes especially for children. Men who have family members participating in the program are welcome to attend nutrition classes.

Some of the topics clients can learn about:

• Eating healthfully during pregnancy for mom and baby
• Infant and child nutrition — healthy foods for happy children, picky eaters, watching your child’s weight, and lots more
• How to get the most out of their food dollars
• Valuable parenting skills
• Stages of child development
• The importance of childhood immunizations
• Tips for pregnant teens
• Common infant problems, such as colic, constipation, and crying

Breastfeeding Support

Clients receive encouragement and instruction in breastfeeding. In many cases, breastfeeding women are provided breast pumps free of charge. WIC helps clients learn why breastfeeding is the best start for their baby, how to breastfeed while still working, Dad’s role in supporting breastfeeding, tips for teens who breastfeed, how to pump and store breastmilk, and much more.

Nutritious Foods

WIC provides benefits each month which are taken to grocery stores and used to buy nutritious foods. WIC foods include iron-fortified infant formula and infant cereal, iron-fortified adult cereal, vitamin C–rich fruit and vegetable juice, milk, eggs, cheese, beans, and peanut butter. Different food packages are issued to different clients. For example, mothers who are totally breastfeeding their babies without formula are issued tuna and carrots in addition to other foods.

Referrals

WIC refers clients to a variety of health and social services agencies and programs. WIC staff can help clients find these services. Some examples are:

• Medicaid
• Food Stamps
• Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)
• Child health insurance
• Family planning
• Migrant health services
• Prenatal care
• Texas Health Steps (EPSDT)
• Medical and dental services
• Early Childhood Intervention (ECI)
• The School Lunch / Breakfast Summer Lunch Program
• Food Pantries
• Literacy Services
• Job Banks
• Housing Services
• Parenting Classes
• Drug and alcohol abuse programs
• Child care
• Child support enforcement

Immunizations

Many Texas WIC clinics provide immunizations free of charge to WIC clients. Those clinics that do not provide immunizations will check immunization records and make referrals to clinics where shots are given.

Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program

Some WIC clinics also provide vouchers for clients to shop at farmers’ markets to buy fresh vegetables and fruits — usually during the spring and summer months. This service is not available statewide, due to limited funding.

Health Benefits of WIC

Studies show that WIC plays an important role in improving birth outcomes and containing health-care costs. WIC has a positive impact on children’s diets. WIC improves infant-feeding practices by actively promoting breastfeeding as the best method of feeding infants. WIC clients have improved rates of childhood immunizations and a regular source of health care.

• Improved infant-feeding practices
• Premature births reduced
• Fetal death rate reduced
• Low birthweight reduced
• Long-term medical expenses reduced
• Improved dietary intake
• Improved cognitive development
• Fewer premature births

Eligibility Forms:

Income Questionnaire (English) (216, PDF) viewing information

Income Questionnarie (Spanish) (165, PDF) viewing information

Income Questionnarie (Vietnamese) (281, PDF) viewing information

What to Bring to Your WIC Appointment (English/Spanish) (109K, PDF) viewing information

What to Bring to Your WIC Appointment (Vietnamese) (173K, PDF) viewing information

Family Certification Form (WIC-35) (156K, PDF) viewing information

Supplemental Information Forms (WIC-35-1) (English) (125K, PDF) viewing information

Supplemental Information Forms (WIC-35-1A) (Spanish) (129K, PDF) viewing information- Spanish