TennCare is a medical assistance program for individuals eligible for Medicaid. This government-operated program provides health care to pregnant women, low income children, some children without insurance and disabled Tennessee residents.
Pregnant Women
TennCare eligibility for pregnant women is a mandatory state program. Eligibility is determined by the Department of Human Services.
Newborns
Newborn babies born to Medicaid eligible mothers are automatically qualified for TennCare for one year. After that, eligibility is determined by the Department of Human Services. Pregnant women up to age 19 are also eligible.
Medically Needy
Medically needy individuals who are children up to 21 (only in some cases), under 18, or pregnant, are eligible based on income guidelines. Eligibility is determined by the Department of Human Services. Uninsured children age 19 and under are also eligible if they do not have access to insurance or are 200 percent under the poverty level.
Supplemental Security Income
Low income individuals with disabilities (such as blindness) are eligible based on income and determined by the Department of Human Services.
Institutionalized Individuals
Low income individuals living in institutions or who receive care in a nursing facility are eligible based on the income table. The Bureau of TennCare or Division of Mental Retardation Services assesses the need for placement.
Women with Breast or Cervical Cancer
Uninsured women, or women whose insurance does not cover cancer treatment can are eligible for TennCare under the age of 65. Treatment need is determined by the County Health Department.
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