The New Jersey Medicaid Program

The Medicaid program is a federal and state partnership that finances health care services for people in need. New Jersey's Medicaid program provides healthcare for more than one million residents by paying for doctor visits, prescriptions, home health care and a wide variety of other healthcare services.

The Federal government establishes the general guidelines for the Medicaid program but each state is allowed to create additional requirements. While eligibility does depend on the state you live in, every state is also required to provide assistance to most individuals who receive federal aid.

To be eligible for Medicaid in New Jersey an individual must meet these general requirements, be a resident of the state, be a U.S. Citizen or qualified alien (most immigrants who arrived after Aug 22, 1996 must wait five years to enroll in the program) and meet specific standards for financial income and resources. Also, they should fall into one of the following categories; families (with children up to age 18), pregnant women, children (up to age 21) or people who are aged, blind or permanently disabled.

New Jersey Medicaid recipients are classified as categorically needy, medically needy or special groups. Individuals who are grouped as categorically needy are typically those with low income and limited resources. States use the Federal Poverty Level Report and family size as a guideline for qualification. Individuals considered medically needy have too much income to qualify as categorically needy but have high medical care expenses. New Jersey also offers special programs for women, children, immigrants who have experienced a medical emergency, elderly residents and individuals with disabilities.

These programs can provide for a wide variety of personal needs such as prescription drugs and various medical supplies including eyeglasses, dentures and prosthetics. Individuals can also receive aid for doctor/licensed practitioner visits and various personal care services such as clinical or diagnostic services. The New Jersey Medicaid plan will even cover some home health care needs such as physical therapy and disability assistance.

In general, you should apply for Medicaid if you or your family members have low income, limited resources or a medical condition. To learn more about the New Jersey Medicaid program or to apply call 1-800-356-1561. You can also contact your local county Board of Social Services or county Welfare Agency.

Read more at the U.S. or State Department of Health and Human Services website or contact a home health service provider who can evaluate your situation and help you apply.

This article is provided by Gentle Care, a home health care service located in New Jersey. gchshome.com gchshome.com