Minnesota funds a sizible share of Medicaid costs in the state.
Congress created Medicaid and Medicare at the same time, with passage of the Social Security Act of 1965. Though both are national health insurance programs, the two serve two different populations, although some people are eligible for both. The federal Centers for Medicare is overseen by the federal Centers for Medicare; The individual states administer Medicaid services. Minnesota's Medicaid programs are managed by the state Department of Human Services.
Basic Eligibility
Not everyone who needs medical assistance is eligible for Medicaid. Minnesota's Medicaid programs are targeted to help low-income families with minor children, pregnant women, the disabled and the elderly. Individuals and families who apply for Medicaid may be subject to both income and asset tests. Your maximum monthly income level depends on your age, health and the number of people in your household. Adults without children may also qualify if they meet income requirements, but these are stricter than those for other populations.
Apply
If you are interested in applying for Minnesota Medicaid, you can download applications from the Department of Human Services (DHS) website or pick one up at a local county health services, human services or family services agency. You can also call the state Minnesota Health Care Programs Help Desk and request that one be mailed to you. Completed applications should be returned to county human services offices or the offices of approved community organizations such as Catholic Charities or the Minnesota AIDS Project. A complete list of approved community agencies that work with Minnesota Medicaid is available from the DHS.
Medical Assistance Program
Minnesota's Medical Assistance Program is a comprehensive plan offered free of premiums. It helps pay for present and future medical expenses, as well as covering bills going three months into the past, dating from when you first turn in your application.
MinnesotaCare
If you have no access to health insurance through work, you may be eligible for MinnesotaCare. Members of MinnesotaCare must pay a monthly premium, but the eligibility rules are less strict than those for Medical Assistance. You must still meet income requirements in order to enroll. MinnesotaCare does not take care of past medical bills, although you must have been without any other kind of health insurance for at least four months before applying.
Medical Savings Program
Medicare beneficiaries may also be eligible for Medicaid through a Medicare Savings Program. MSPs help pay for some of the costs of Medicare, such as copays, premiums and coinsurance. Minnesota has four kinds of Medicare Savings Programs. Eligibility depends on your income level, family size and whether you have a disability.
