Washington Medicaid

MtStHelensMedicaid, funded by both the federal and state governments, is an important health program for people with lower incomes, elderly people, some families with children, and people with disabilities.

The state Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) administers Medicaid programs throughout Washington, and recipients must be American citizens or legal permanent residents living in Washington who fall into certain qualifying categories.

Qualifying categories for Medicaid eligibility include:

  • the elderly
  • the physically disabled
  • the mentally disabled
  • severely disabled children
  • pregnant women
  • low income adults
  • low income children

By 2014, most adults across the country who are under age 65 and have incomes under $15,000 will qualify for Medicaid. Although income limits for various Washington Medicaid programs vary substantially, all limits are tied to the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For recipients who are aged or disabled, the income limit is currently set at 75% of the FPL for single people and 83%
for couples. For help determining income and asset limits under various qualifying categories, consult the Washington State Eligibility for Medical Programs page.

Medicaid in Washington covers a wide range of medical services including:

  • Laboratory and X-ray services
  • Inpatient and outpatient hospital services
  • Health screenings for children and treatment of detected medical problems
  • Comprehensive dental services for children
  • Adult medical and surgical dental services
  • Nursing facility services for adults
  • Health clinic services
  • Prescription drugs
  • Physical, occupational, or speech therapy for children
  • Eye doctor visits and eyeglasses for children
  • Medically-necessary transportation services

Dual Eligibility

Some people are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. In such cases, Medicare is the primary payer.

If you are eligible for both Medicare and Washington Medicaid, looking into Medicare Advantage plans may be a wise move. Medicare Advantage can offer increased coverage and security to dual eligible individuals, and some Medicare Advantage plans are available premium-free.

Call MedicareMall toll-free at 1-877-413-1556 for help determining whether Medicare Advantage is right for you.

For more information about Medicaid in Washington, contact Washington State Medicaid Customer Service. To apply for any of the various Washington Medicaid programs and services, follow the easy instructions on the DSHS How to Apply for Services page.

If you have any further questions about senior healthcare including Original Medicare Part A and Part B, Medicare Advantage, or Medicare supplement plans, contact a licensed, bonded MedicareMall representative and let us lead you with confidence through the Medicare maze!

© 2013 MedicareMall.com

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