 [ Symptoms ] i have no insurance can i still get free screenings for pap smears and mammograms [ Disease ] the simple answer unfortunately is no the provision of the health reform law that started last september applies to insurance plans that exist or are newly purchased grandfathered plans are exempt the benefit does not extend to people without insurance unfortunately those currently uninsured will not reap the benefits of this provision until 2014 when preventive services will be free under any health plan sold through health insurance exchanges no doubt that is not the answer people want to hear the law is scheduled to roll out in stages with the most significant provision – the requirement that everyone have access to health insurance – kicking in only two and half years from now on jan 1 2014 if you are unable to afford health insurance on the private insurance market it is worth checking to see if you might be eligible for public options in your state coverageforall org is a resource offered by the foundation for health coverage education fhce on its web site you can search for insurance options around the country in one convenient place go to the organization is eligibility quiz which will help you identify program information tailored to your specific needs along with associated costs a sign up check list and links to every program available in your state and at benefits gov you can search for all of the government programs for which you may be eligible you can also speak with someone by phone at 800 fed info