What Low-Income Medical Coverage is available?
Washington State has a number of programs dedicated to providing health care coverage for low income residents. The largest single source for this coverage is Medicaid, which offers complete major medical coverage. There are also other programs that offer more limited benefits. Services are available through managed care or fee-for-service.
These health care services are covered by Medicaid:
- Appointments with a doctor or health care professional for necessary care
- Medical care in an emergency
- Maternity care
- Mental Health services
- Treatment for chemical or alcohol dependence
- All necessary dental and vision care for children
- Limited dental and vision care for adults
- Prescription medications
- Transportation to and from medical appointments, when necessary
- An interpreter for your appointment, if you do not speak English. (arranged through your provider)
Who is eligible for health care coverage?
Eligibility for coverage is based on your income as compared to the Federal Poverty Level, or FPL. There is an online trial eligibility worksheet available that will help you determine if you are eligible. No information from this trial worksheet is kept, and your privacy is assured.Coverage for Children
In addition to the general coverage for low income residents, these are situations in which children may also be covered:- You have health insurance for yourself through your employer, but are unable to afford insurance for your children.
- Your children are not U.S. citizens or do not meet the citizenship requirements for Medicaid programs.
- Your family income is under $51,625/yr for a family of four. This income table will tell you limits for smaller and larger families.
- Your family has federal refugee status.
Coverage for Adults and Elderly
Low income elderly who already get Medicare benefits may also qualify for supplemental benefits. Elderly and non-disabled adults are eligible for Medicaid programs when their income is 70% or less of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). The Washington Basic Health program offers health insurance to adults who do not qualify for Medicaid but have income less than 200% of the FPL. Some working disabled adults may be covered when their income is as much as 400% of the FPL. Try out the online trial eligibility worksheet to find out if you qualify.For comments or questions, email contact us
Page modified: November 2009
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