The numbers of Americans that are currently not covered by health insurance are depressing – currently estimated at 47 million - and the forecast is that those numbers are still going to go up. However, there is still a silver lining there. There are still ways to use the HMO guidelines to make sure you and your family is covered in almost any medical emergency.

First thing – if you can't afford to pay for your health insurance right now, ask about Medicare or Medicaid coverage. Granted, these are usually accorded to people that live below the poverty level, but you may find that to be the exception in your state. What if you still don't qualify? Find out the guidelines, nevertheless. There may come a time when you may qualify for it and you'll be glad that you know what is needed to get it.

Second – take a look at what your health care plans cover. Review your policy at least once year to see if you're paying for what you need. And pay annually if you can. The discounts on yearly payments can reach up to 30% less than monthly payments. Consider choosing a higher deductible; this may mean higher monthly payments but in cases of emergencies, you will have fewer out-of-pocket expenses. In this regard, find out what the limit is for those expenses you're supposed to cover and what those expenses are, exactly.

Third – if you're currently employed, take your employer's insurance and make use of it. Take advantage of yearly check-ups since a clean bill of health also keeps your premium costs down. Find out about your state Worker's Compensation program. You may be eligible for coverage under that. If you've lost your job, however, consider using COBRA (Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act) to continue your previous health care coverage. If you've got college kids, this may be a good alternative for them, too. It's not really that affordable but a workable alternative for emergency situations.

Fourth – when you're making use of your health insurance, there are certain things you can do to keep your costs down and within your deductible limit. You must know how much a medical bill should cost so you can negotiate if it seems extremely high. ERs are for emergencies only; keep it that way and use the Out Patient Department if you need medical help that's not too serious, or better yet, call your MD over the phone and do your consultation that way. Then you can stay home and treat your pains and aches yourself. If your doctor prescribes medications, request generics instead and only buy what you need.

Fifth – retirement bring another slew of options. You could consider a Senior Day Care instead of personalized day care. A great way to bring down costs and have company at the same time is to share a home with other seniors.

This is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to finding affordable health care. There are so many options out there and so many ways to be able to afford health coverage that it doesn't seem to be such a bleak picture after all.