Medicaid

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides health coverage to people with limited income and resources. It is administered by your state government, so benefits and eligibility requirements vary by state.

Medicaid covers a broad range of health services, including:

• Doctor and specialist visits
• Emergency room and hospital care
• Prescription drugs
• Mental health and substance use treatment
• Preventive care and vaccines
• Dental and vision care (for children; adult coverage varies by state)
• Long-term care for elderly and disabled individuals

Who qualifies?

The Affordable Care Act expanded Medicaid eligibility. In states that expanded Medicaid, most adults up to age 65 with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level qualify.

Regardless of state expansion status, Medicaid covers:

• Children under age 19 in families below state income limits
• Pregnant women for care during pregnancy and 60 days postpartum
• Adults 65 and older with limited income and resources
• People with disabilities who receive SSI

How does coverage work?

Once enrolled, you will receive a Medicaid card in the mail. Present this card at doctor visits, pharmacies, and other health care providers. Most services are free or cost very little. Your state may require small copayments for some services.

You can keep your Medicaid coverage as long as you remain eligible. Medicaid checks your eligibility once a year during your annual renewal.

How to apply

You can apply through this website, by calling our office, or by visiting us in person. You can also apply through the Health Insurance Marketplace at healthcare.gov if you’re not sure which program you qualify for.