Here's how to sign up for new Medicaid services
Nov. 25—Expanding the Medicaid program will be transformative for an estimated 3,000 individuals in Haywood, said Ira Dove, director of the Haywood County Health and Human Services Department.
"We're really excited they will have the opportunity to take part in the expanded Medicaid program," Dove said. "That's quite a few people who will now have access to fuller care."
Dove said the state has been sending notices to individuals who may qualify — those taking advantage of the child nutrition programs or others who have interacted with the agency on programs where the guidelines aren't so strict.
"We're getting quite a few inquiries already and are working with the hospital to set up enrollment events," Dove said.
While enrollment starts Dec. 1 and will continue throughout the year, it will take time to process the applications, though service eligibility starts on the application date.
Once approved, the applicant will choose which plan to select. Providers offering plans in Haywood include Amerihealth Caritas North Carolina, Inc.; Healthy Blue; United Healthcare of North Carolina, Inc.; and WellCare of North Carolina, Inc., the four companies currently providing managed Medicaid options in the region.
While all providers offer basic health care, other perks vary from plan to plan and include healthy food boxes, after-school care, over-the-counter drugs, help with deposits for a rental, children's extracurricular activities, substance abuse counseling, rides to medical appointments and even annual rewards for visiting a doctor.
"Through Medicaid expansion, people will be able to have the insurance to cover visits for care and for medications. Some of these persons are now on programs that have limited benefits," Dove explained. "So now, after being on that program that just paid for an annual physical, they can have that ability to pay for follow up care. Some of these persons will be accessing this insurance for the first time. They will be working with the insurance provider to find a care home."
Providers
Dove said it would be up to the managed care organizations to assign their clients to a primary practice.
Blue Ridge Health, a federally qualified healthcare center, already offers health services to Haywood Medicaid recipients and others on an income-based scale.
A spokesperson said the clinic in Haywood already has a number of patients who will qualify for the expanded program.
Enrollment details
Adults between the ages of 19 to 64 with income levels 138% of the federal poverty level may now qualify for Medicaid coverage. That percentage means a single adult earning about $20,000 annually could qualify, while a family of three could earn up to $34,000 annually.
To qualify, applicants must:
—Be a U.S. citizen
—Live in the state
—Not be entitled or participate in Medicare Part A or B
—Not otherwise eligible for and enrolled in another full Medicaid program.
If the applicant is a parent/caregiver of a child under age 21 who is living in the home, the child must be currently receiving Medicaid and/or have minimum essential medical coverage, an insurance plan that meets the Affordable Care Act requirement and provides basic medical care and hospitalization.
Medicaid covers many health services, including primary care, hospital services, maternity and postpartum care, vision, hearing services, prescription drugs, behavioral health, preventive services, dental and oral health, medical-related devices and more.
How to apply
Applications are accepted online at epass.nc.gov. Those who prefer in-person assistance can visit the county's Health and Human Services office at 157 Paragon Parkway in Clyde. Or individuals can call 828-452-6620 with any questions. There is a Dropbox in the front of the building at Paragon Parkway, where folks can leave their applications 24/7.
