Healthcare is a fundamental right, and many states in the U.S. offer programs to ensure that their residents have access to the medical care they need. In this blog, we will delve into the stipulations for obtaining free healthcare in four major states: New York, Florida, and Ohio. 

New York State Medicaid

Eligibility and Coverage
New York’s Medicaid program provides comprehensive health coverage to millions of lower-income New Yorkers. The program covers a wide range of services based on the individual’s age, financial circumstances, family situation, or living arrangements. These services are accessible directly using the Medicaid card or through a managed care plan if enrolled. Some services might require small co-payments, but these can be waived for those who cannot afford them.

How to Apply for Medicaid in New York:

1. Create and account and apply online on their Website
2. Write, phone, or visit your local department of social services.
3. In New York City, you can contact the Human Resources Administration at (718) 557–1399.
4. Pregnant individuals and children can apply at various clinics, hospitals, and provider offices. It’s advisable to call the local department of social services to find out the application venues.
5. If you are in a facility operated by the New York State Office of Mental Health or the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities, you can contact the respective offices for application guidance.

For more detailed information, you can visit the New York State Medicaid website.

New York Medicaid Income Limits 2023:

• Individuals: $1,677 monthly / $20,121 yearly
• Couples (both receiving care): $2,268 monthly / $27,214 yearly

Income Eligibility
To determine if your income qualifies you for NYS Medicaid, you can Check Income Eligibility.

Florida Medicaid

Eligibility and Coverage
Medicaid in Florida offers medical coverage to low-income individuals and families, with costs shared by the state and federal government. This includes services like doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drug coverage, regular check-ups for children, and long-term care services for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

Online Application
The primary way to apply for Medicaid in Florida is through the Access Florida website, managed by the Department of Children and Families. The online portal allows applicants to submit their applications electronically and upload the necessary supporting documents.

Information Required
The application process involves submitting details about your income, assets, and medical needs.

Processing Time
The Department of Children and Families (DCF) processes the Medicaid application and determines eligibility. This process can take up to 30 days.

Medicaid Eligibility Specifics
DCF determines Medicaid eligibility for various groups, including parents and caretaker relatives of children, children, pregnant women, former foster care individuals, non-citizens with medical emergencies, and aged or disabled individuals not currently eligible.

Florida Medicaid Income Limits 2023:

• Children up to 1-year-old: 200% of the federal poverty level (FPL)
• Children ages 1–18: 133% of FPL
• Children under age 19: Can qualify for Florida Healthy Kids if household income is between 133% and 200% of FPL
• Pregnant women: 196% of FPL
• Adults with minor children: 26% of FPL
• People who qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI): Automatically qualify for Medicaid in Florida.

Using the 2023 FPL numbers:

• 1 person — under $14,580 a year
• 2 people — under $19,720 a year combined
• 3 people — under $24,860 a year combined
• 4 people — under $30,000 a year combined

For specific categories like pregnant women, the income limit would be 196% of the FPL, which translates to:

• 1 person (pregnant woman) — under $28,577.6 a year
• 2 people — under $38,691.2 a year combined
• 3 people — under $48,804.8 a year combined
• 4 people — under $58,800 a year combined

For more detailed information and updates, you can visit the Florida Medicaid website.

Ohio Medicaid

Eligibility and Coverage
Ohio Medicaid provides essential health care services to low-income individuals and families. The program is designed to cater to various groups, including families with children, seniors, persons with disabilities, pregnant women, and specific disease groups.

For Individuals (aged 65 and older, blind, or disabled):

• Monthly Income Limit: $2,523
• Resource Limit: $2,000

For Couples (both aged 65 and older, blind, or disabled):

• Monthly Income Limit: $3,425
• Resource Limit: $3,000

For Individuals (under age 65 and not blind or disabled):

• Monthly Income Limit: $1,482
• Resource Limit: $2,000

For Couples (both under age 65 and not blind or disabled):

• Monthly Income Limit: $2,004
• Resource Limit: $3,000

How to Apply:

1. Online: Ohio residents can apply for Medicaid benefits online.
2. Phone: The Consumer Hotline at 800–324–8680 is available for assistance.
3. In-Person: Residents can visit local county offices to apply in person.

For detailed information on eligibility criteria, application processes, and more, it’s recommended to visit the official Ohio Medicaid website or contact local county offices.