Benefits · Healthcare
How to apply for Cook County Health — CareLink Financial Assistance + CountyCare (Cook County)
Cook County Health (Stroger Hospital, Provident Hospital, and CCH clinics) — the public safety-net system
Who it's for
Cook County hospital safety net: Cook County Health (CCH) — the public safety-net system anchored by John H. Stroger Jr. Hospital and Provident Hospital plus a large clinic network. CareLink is CCH's financial-assistance program for uninsured/underinsured Cook County residents, giving a 30%, 50%, or 100% discount on clinic visits, labs, hospital stays, and ER/urgent care based on income (sliding to ~200-250% of the Federal Poverty Level). CCH also runs CountyCare, the county's Medicaid managed-care plan (the highest-rated Medicaid plan in Illinois). Apply for CareLink at Stroger Hospital (1969 W. Ogden Ave.) or any CCH site.
Cook = Cook County Health (Stroger + Provident), the public safety net. CareLink gives 30/50/100% discounts to ~200-250% FPL; CountyCare is the Medicaid managed-care plan. This is the strongest indigent-care safety net in the state.
What you'll need
- Proof of household income
- Proof of Cook County residency
- Photo identification
- Proof of uninsured/underinsured status
- Hospital bill or pre-treatment estimate
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 312-864-6000
Renewals
annual (CareLink approval)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.