Consumer-Focused Health Information Web Sites Launched with Backing from Commonwealth Fund

The Commonwealth Fund recently helped launch three Web sites that provide information to consumers about health care access and insurance. The following describes the sites:

• BenefitsCheckUp.org: Managed by the National Council on the Aging, the site helps seniors find programs that may pay for some health care-related costs, such as prescription drugs and medical treatment, as well as utilities and other necessities. It is the first nationwide online service to provide public benefit screenings.
  
• HealthCareCoach.com: Launched by the National Health Law Program, the site provides information on using health care coverage more effectively and how to access necessary health services. The site features hundreds of health-related articles, links to current health care news and a user forum.
  
• The Artists' Health Insurance Resource Center: Launched by the Actor's Fund of America, the site helps artists acquire insurance and access health care. The site provides information on health insurance coverage choices and state regulations, and also includes links to artist groups offering health coverage and public and private health care resources (Commonwealth Fund release, 11/11).