Washington residents have two options for purchasing affordable health insurance through state-funded health care plans. Low-income residents can receive specialized health coverage that offers low or no co-payments and low annual deductibles. Residents who do not qualify for the low-income program can sign up for a separate health care program which offers discounted rates and low monthly premiums.
Washington Basic Health
The Washington Basic Health Program gives low-income residents an affordable alternative to private health care insurance. Under the program, residents can receive coverage for routine check ups, doctor visits, hospitalization and emergency care treatment. The program also covers the cost of most prescription drugs. Applicants do not need to pay a co-pay for preventive services, but will need to provide a 20 percent co-pay for other services. The program also has a $250 annual deductible, as of 2011, according to the Washington State Health Care Authority.
Washington Health Program
The Washington Health Program offers affordable insurance for many Washington families, regardless of income level. Under the program, residents will receive $75,000 to $100,000 in medical coverage with a $500 annual deductible and 30 percent co-pay, according to the Washington State Health Care Authority. Applicants will receive coverage for routine check ups, emergency treatment, hospitalization, maternity care, lab work and preventive medicine. The program also covers prescription drugs. Applicants can visit either their chosen primary care provider or a provider outside of the program's network. To qualify for the Washington Health Program, residents will need to pay a monthly premium.
Eligibility
To qualify for either healthcare program, applicants must reside in Washington, cannot attend a college or university on a full-time basis, and cannot qualify for federally-managed health care programs such as Medicaid or Medicare. The Washington Health Plan does not have any set income limits. However, residents must pay premiums to remain in the program from month-to-month. To qualify for Washington Basic Health, residents must meet low-income guidelines based on household size. For example, a family of four can have a monthly income up to $3,675.18 to qualify for the program, according to the Washington State Health Care Authority, as of 2011.
Applying
Residents can apply for the Washington Basic Health program at a local Department of Social and Health Services office. Occasionally, the Washington Basic Health Program will exceed capacity and residents will need to join a waiting list. Residents can enter the waiting list, or apply directly online at the at the Washington Basic Health website.
Tags: Basic Health, Washington Basic, Washington Basic Health, Health Program, Washington Health
