Apply for Medicaid in New York State

When people become sick, most tend to wait until they become extremely ill to go to the doctor or hospital. When people hold off on making an appointment to see a doctor, it isn’t because they are afraid of doctors, it is because they are afraid of the bill they will be facing once the visit is over. Even though many have insurance coverage, there are several out-of-pocket expenses that add up. The insurance policy itself, the deductibles, the co-pays, and more. Dealing with high medical costs can be difficult, however, there are other ways to have decent insurance and not have high premiums or compromise our health or our loved one’s health either. One way to make this happen is by learning more about Medicaid and how it can help in any situation. Trusted Choice Homecare is dedicated to helping you with signing up for and understanding how your benefits can help you. 

What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a form of healthcare that was created by the federal government to aid those who need help. Although the name changes from state to state, it is still the same healthcare offered all over the world. Currently, Medicaid has helped millions of eligible low-income people attain health coverage in the United States. This health coverage is available for those who meet the eligibility requirements such as low-income adults, children, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and elderly adults. Medicaid offers a way for people who have no other means for healthcare to receive the care that they need for themselves or their loved ones at a low cost or no cost at all.

Learn more about Medicaid in New York here.

What are the Requirements?

Knowing what the requirements are for Medicaid in New York can really save a long application process. To qualify for Medicaid in New York, you must be able to provide proof of residency along with providing proof that you are either a citizen of the United States, a permanent resident, or a legal alien. Another factor that will determine eligibility for coverage is by showing proof of income by providing proof of the total income level of a household. You will also need to provide any proof of other sources of income to determine if you fall under the federal poverty level (FPL).

What Income Do I Report?

As mentioned above, all income is required when applying for Medicaid which includes employment wages, pension payments, Social Security Income, Disability income, gifts, IRAs, and so on. It is also important to include our spouse’s income even if our spouse is not applying for the coverage. However, if we are applying for a nursing home Medicaid or Medicaid waiver and the spouse is not then the spouse’s income is not needed at this time.

What is Covered?

Although Medicaid aims to cover everything for their clients, it does not mean everything will be covered for them. For example, the coverage available all depends on numerous factors such as income, age, household, and more. However, Medicaid coverage does include home care aide services, medical supplies, childbirth, X-rays, health clinic visits, transportation to medical appointments, and more. However, Medicaid in New York does not cover dental services, cosmetic procedures, speech therapy, and more.

How Does One Apply?

Applying for anything can be difficult, especially if we want to make sure that we are answering everything correctly. When applying for Medicaid, all documents should be prepared so it is ready to submit for the application. Once everything is ready, you can apply for Medicaid by going in person, calling the local office, or apply online. However, for those who are 65 and older, they will not be able to apply online, but they are still able to call or go in person to complete the application.

For New York State Medicaid Application Information apply here.

How Much Does Medicaid Cost?

Although Medicaid does try to keep their costs low or at no costs at all, it does not mean that it always will be like that which is why it is crucial to be aware of any additional costs that may pop up due to these medical services. For example, a co-payment may still be necessary for certain services like laboratory tests, medical supplies, medication, hospital stays, clinic visits, and so on. It is important to remember that the coverage will still have some expenses associated with it despite Medicaid’s attempt to limit or reduce costs.