subject: Emergency Medicaid [print this page] What do you do if you need to make an critical visit to the hospital and have no health insurance? If you have an acute crisis the hospital is required to treat you, but who pays? If you qualify your bills could be taken care of by emergency Medicaid.
Emergency Medicaid is a government sponsored medical assistance program, administered by each state, and provides payment for treatment in a crisis situation for certain patients. A situation is considered critical if there is a condition showing acute symptoms, including pain, that could adversely effect life or health, or cause a dysfunction of an organ or body part. Keep in mind that not everyone will be eligible for this program. It is not a health insurance.
Emergency Medicaid is not contingent on citizenship or legal immigration status, but other requirements, necessary for Medicaid, must be met.
In the case of pregnancy, a woman without health insurance may be able to receive emergency Medicaid to cover labor and delivery. However, prenatal care, except in the case of a problem or problems during pregnancy that might endanger the mother or the unborn child, is not considered an crisis and would not be covered.
If you have a chronic condition, such as asthma or heart disease, even if serious, will not be covered except in extreme situations.
To qualify for this, the recipient must meet all financial limits and requirements necessary to be eligible for Medicaid. These requirements vary by state so must be reviewed on an individual basis. Financial need is not the only criteria that needs to be met. There will be other rules in each individual state needed to qualify.
How do you apply for Emergency Medicaid? This isn't something you can plan for in advance. It will need to be applied for after the visit. You can apply at the hospital, your local social service agency or online. You will need a picture ID, bank statement, pay stubs and perhaps a utility bill. Your information will be reviewed and a determination made as to your eligibility.
This is not a guaranteed way to finance your hospital visit, and should be considered more of a last resort. If you are having trouble with medical bills or have no health insurance you may want to check with your local social service agency before an crisis arises.
