Subsidized health insurance: how to enroll for free in Colombia

We help families enter the subsidized health system so that no one is left without care because they cannot afford it.

What are the requirements to become a member?

The requirements are fewer than people imagine, and none of them cost money. Here's what you need to have ready:

• Being classified in the Sisbén in one of the lower income groups, or belong to a special population recognized by the State.
• Not contributing to the contributory scheme nor have the means to do so (not having a formal job that requires you to contribute).
• Your identity document and that of each member of the family group that you are going to enroll.
• Choosing a Health Promoting Entity (EPS) that the subsidized regime operates in your municipality.

If you're unsure which Sisbén group you fall into, you can check it first; we explain it in our guide about the Sisbén groups for subsidies. Knowing your classification clearly prevents you from becoming a member only to be turned away due to information that could have been verified beforehand.

How to enroll in the subsidized health insurance program step by step?

The process is free and, for the most part, you can do it online. Here are the steps:

• Check your classification in the Sisbén. Confirm that you are in a group that qualifies for the subsidy before starting.
• I chose the EPS. See which ones operate the subsidized healthcare system in your municipality and compare their network of nearby hospitals and health centers.
• Sign up. You can do it online through the Transactional Affiliation System at miseguridadsocial.gov.co, or in person at the EPS office or at the health department of your municipality.
• Keep the record. Once you're a member, keep the receipt; you can use it to book appointments.

After signing up, it's a good idea to confirm that the system registered you correctly. You can verify this by checking your status, a step we explain in detail in our guide on the ADRES and how to check your EPS.

What happens if you already had EPS or lost your affiliation?

Having had EPS coverage before doesn't prevent you from accessing it. If you lost your formal employment and can no longer contribute to the system, you can switch from the contributory to the subsidized system through what the system calls mobility, usually without changing your EPS if your current one operates both systems. The right to health is not lost due to job loss.

If you appear as withdrawn or not affiliated and believe it's a mistake, don't delay: contact your EPS (Health Promoting Entity) or the health department to reactivate your affiliation. While this is being resolved, no hospital can deny you initial care in an emergency. The important thing is to regularize your situation so you can schedule appointments and treatments without problems.

Does the subsidized system cover the same things as the contributory system?

This is the question that brings the most relief to families when we answer it: yes. In Colombia, the health benefits plan is the same for both systems, so a member of the subsidized system is entitled to the same consultations, tests, surgeries, and medications as a contributor. The difference isn't in what you receive, but in who pays: in the subsidized system, the State covers it.

As coverage details, available health insurance providers, and classification rules are updated, always confirm the current information in the Ministry of Health Before making any decisions. Your right is in the law; the only thing that changes over time are the procedures for enforcing it.

Subsidized health insurance: requirements and steps to enroll

The subsidized healthcare system is designed for people who cannot afford to pay, and enrollment is free through a Health Promoting Entity (EPS). This summary outlines the general steps; exact requirements may vary, so always verify information through official Social Security System channels.

General steps to enroll in the subsidized regime (reference).

Common mistakes

• Thinking that the Sisbén system automatically enrolls students: The Sisbén classifies you, but affiliation is done separately with an EPS (Health Promoting Entity).
• Do not update the family nucleus: You're leaving out children or family members who could also be covered.
• Do not confirm activation: You think you're enrolled, but when you need care you discover that the process wasn't completed.

If you have any questions about your classification or your entitlement to the subsidy, consult your local council or official health channels.

Frequently asked questions about the subsidized health insurance system

How much does it cost to join the subsidized health insurance program?

Nothing. Enrollment in the subsidized health insurance system is free, and the state finances your care. If someone asks you for money to "register" you or "speed up" the process, it's a scam: the process is direct and without intermediaries.

Do I need to be registered in the Sisbén system to enter?

In most cases, yes: the Sisbén classification in the lowest income groups is the entry point. Special populations (indigenous people, victims of violence, the homeless, among others) can register through census lists without going through Sisbén.

Can I choose any health insurance provider I want?

You can choose from the EPSs (Health Promoting Entities) that operate the subsidized healthcare system in your municipality. It's a good idea to compare the network of hospitals and health centers that each one has near your home before deciding.

What do I do if I have an emergency and I'm not a member?

By law, emergency services must treat you regardless of your health insurance affiliation. After you are stabilized, the priority is to regularize your status by enrolling in or reactivating your EPS (health insurance provider) to continue receiving care.

How Hepacom accompanies you

At the Hechos Para la Comunidad Foundation, we know that a healthy family is a family that can thrive, study, and dream of owning their own home. That's why it pains us to see neighbors like Doña Rosalba enduring illnesses because they believe healthcare isn't for them. The subsidized healthcare system exists precisely so that a person's background doesn't determine whether or not they receive care.

We'll guide you on how to determine if your family is eligible, how to enroll for free, and what to do if you're rejected or lose your EPS coverage. Find more guides on benefits and rights in our blog, Learn about our work in the Hepacom homepage And if you need support, write to us at donaciones@hepacom.org.

Information guide. Enrollment and care are managed by the General Social Security System in Health, the EPS (Health Promoting Entities), and the health secretariats. Classification and coverage rules change; verify current information with the Ministry of Health and the ADDRESS. Hepacom does not charge for registration nor does it handle payments.