Children in low and moderate-income Idaho households can get health care through Medicaid.
Health care costs are constantly increasing; and for many Idaho households, paying for quality health care is difficult, if not impossible. Individuals and households that meet the eligibility requirements can receive assistance in accessing and paying for medical care through a variety of Medicaid programs funded by the federal government.
General Eligibility Requirements
To receive Medicaid benefits in Idaho, you must meet certain eligibility requirements. You must be a resident of Idaho and be able to prove your U.S. citizenship. In general, you can only receive Medicaid if you meet the income restrictions and fall into one of the following groups: children under age 19; parents or other related adults with children under age 19; women who are pregnant or have breast or cervical cancer; those over age 65; or those who are blind or disabled according to Social Security Administration criteria. Your income eligibility is determined by adding all of the income that your family earns before taxes each month and comparing it to the income thresholds for each individual program. The value of your assets, such as bank accounts, vehicles and real estate is also considered in determining your eligibility for Medicaid in Idaho.
Family Medicaid
In order to qualify for Family Medicaid in Idaho---meaning that anyone in the household over age 19 is covered in addition to minor children---your monthly gross income must be significantly less than the established federal poverty guidelines for your household size. As of 2011, for example, a family of four must earn less than $382 per month in order to qualify for Family Medicaid. This is just over 20 percent of the federal poverty guidelines.
Coverage for Pregnant Women and Children
If you are seeking Medicaid coverage for your children, or if you are pregnant, the income eligibility guidelines are significantly higher. If you fall into one of these categories, you can earn up to 133 percent of the federal poverty guidelines and qualify for Medicaid. In 2011, a family of four can earn up to $2,444 per month and receive Medicaid coverage for the children or pregnant woman.
Children's Health Insurance Programs
Idaho households with children with an income that is too high for traditional Medicaid benefits can apply for coverage through the State Children's Health Insurance Program. This program offers low or no-cost medical services to children, but parents or guardians pay a $10 monthly premium for the coverage. Your household income determines the co-payments for medical services under the SCHIP plans. As of 2011, families with an income of up to 150 percent of the federal poverty level, or $2,757 per month for a family of four, qualify for SCHIP with no co-payments, and families earning up to 185 percent of the federal poverty guidelines, or $3,400 per month, qualify for SCHIP with co-payments for services.
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