ADMINISTRATIVE PROCEDURES
Among the most important services you need as an American citizen, Medicaid is one of them. So, what do you do to access this service? What are the requirements you must produce? Look at the procedure you must take, eligibility, and benefits you receive once you sign up for Medicaid.
What is Medicaid, and Who Can Apply
Affordable medical services are vital for every American, regardless of their income, and this is what Medicaid does. It is a state and federal government-funded health program that enables all Americans to access crucial medical care at affordable rates.
Children, adults with low income, pregnant women, people 65 or older, and those with disabilities are eligible for Medicaid. And while this service is available to most Americans, the particulars you receive vary from state to state, depending on their specification.
Why And When You Should Apply
It is important to apply for this medical service to avoid cash expenditures of thousands of dollars on medical emergencies when they arise. You should also sign up for Medicaid if you fall under the brackets of people mentioned above.
As with other social drives, you can apply for this medical service anytime. However, you can’t start using the card until after a few months, when it will be activated. Therefore, applying for this service early enough is advisable to use it when medical emergencies arise.
Requirements and Documentation Needed
When applying for this card, you must pass an eligibility test to grant you access to the application portal. Most importantly, you must be part of the mandatory eligibility groups. Additionally, you must provide the following documents:
- • State-provided identification document
- • State health insurance start and end dates.
- • Employment longevity period for yours or the spouse catering for your health insurance through group plans.
- • Group health insurance longevity dates provided by your employer or your spouse’s employer.
- • Credit card information.
- • W-2 forms.
- • Tax forms.
- • Duly filled Part A or Part B application forms.
- • Any other required details.
Eligibility Criteria
Medicaid is a reserve of people that fall under the mandatory eligibility groups. This includes low-income families, qualifying pregnant women and children, beneficiaries of supplementary social income, people with disabilities, and others as indicated on the eligibility group default list.
Where To Apply
Once you qualify for this service, you can apply to your state’s Medicaid website. This resource list can help you pick the right site for you. If you choose this option, you must have an account to proceed with the process.
You can equally apply for Medicaid through a call. Each state provides a toll-free call number to contact for this service. Finally, contact your social security services to get help applying for this service on their official website, depending on your state.
What You Will Get
After applying for Medicaid, you will receive a Medicaid card which you can use to facilitate your medical needs. However, your cover’s extent depends on your selection (A, B, C, or D) and your state’s regulations.
Validity And Processing Time
You can use your Medicaid card as long as you’re eligible for the service. The state reviews your eligibility to continue providing the service to you. Typically, each state must process Medicaid in a maximum of seven days. However, complete the application in under 24 hours.
Users should keep their cards in a safe and easily accessible place. If you misplace your card, visit the application website, click the “replace card” icon, and follow the prompts. You can also call the Department of Community Based Services for a replacement.