Free Health Insurance in Ohio: Everything You Need to Know

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Did you know that Ohio offers free health insurance to eligible residents? If you’re struggling to afford quality healthcare, you may be able to take advantage of this program. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about free health insurance in Ohio, including eligibility requirements, benefits, and how to apply.

Table Contents show

What is Free Health Insurance in Ohio?

The Ohio Department of Medicaid offers free or low-cost health insurance to residents who meet certain income and other eligibility requirements. This program is known as Medicaid, and it provides coverage for a wide range of medical services, including:

Service
Coverage
Doctor Visits
Yes
Hospital Care
Yes
Prescription Drugs
Yes
Dental Care
Yes (for children)
Eye Exams and Glasses
Yes (for children)

If you’re approved for Medicaid, you’ll receive an insurance card that you can use to access medical services with no or very low out-of-pocket costs.

Who is Eligible for Free Health Insurance in Ohio?

To be eligible for Medicaid in Ohio, you must meet the following requirements:

  • You must be a resident of Ohio
  • You must be a U.S. citizen or have eligible immigration status
  • Your income must be at or below a certain level
  • You must meet certain other eligibility requirements, such as being pregnant, having a disability, or being a child in foster care

The income limits vary based on your household size and other factors. In general, you may be eligible for Medicaid if your income is at or below 138% of the federal poverty level.

How Do I Apply for Free Health Insurance in Ohio?

You can apply for Medicaid in Ohio online, by phone, or in person. To apply online, visit the Ohio Benefits website and create an account. You’ll need to provide information about yourself, your household, and your income. You may also need to provide documentation to verify your eligibility.

If you prefer to apply by phone, you can call the Ohio Department of Medicaid at 1-800-324-8680. If you’d like to apply in person, you can visit your local County Department of Job and Family Services or call the Ohio Benefits hotline at 1-844-640-6446 to find a location near you.

What are the Benefits of Free Health Insurance in Ohio?

If you’re approved for Medicaid in Ohio, you’ll receive comprehensive health insurance coverage with no or very low out-of-pocket costs. In addition to the services listed in the table above, Medicaid may also cover:

  • Mental health services
  • Substance abuse treatment
  • Long-term care services
  • Medical equipment and supplies
  • Transportation to medical appointments

Medicaid also offers free or low-cost preventive services, such as annual physical exams, cancer screenings, and immunizations.

FAQ

What is the Federal Poverty Level?

The Federal Poverty Level (FPL) is a measure of income used by the government to determine eligibility for various programs, including Medicaid. The FPL varies based on household size and other factors. In 2021, the FPL for a single person is $12,880 per year, and it increases by $4,540 for each additional household member.

What if My Income is Above the Medicaid Eligibility Limits?

If your income is above the Medicaid eligibility limits, you may still be able to get help paying for health insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace. The Marketplace offers plans from private insurance companies with subsidies to help lower your costs. You can apply for Marketplace coverage online or by phone.

Do I Need to Renew my Medicaid Coverage?

Yes, you’ll need to renew your Medicaid coverage every year to maintain your eligibility. The Ohio Department of Medicaid will send you a renewal notice when it’s time to renew. You’ll need to provide updated information about your income and household size, and you may need to provide documentation to verify your eligibility.

Can I See Any Doctor with Medicaid?

Not all doctors accept Medicaid, but many do. When you receive your Medicaid insurance card, you’ll also receive a list of doctors and other healthcare providers who accept Medicaid. You can also search for providers online using the Ohio Medicaid Provider Directory.

What Should I Do if My Medicaid Application is Denied?

If your Medicaid application is denied, you have the right to appeal the decision. To appeal, you’ll need to submit a written request to the Ohio Department of Medicaid within 90 days of the denial. You can also get help with the appeals process from a legal aid organization or healthcare advocate.

Conclusion

Free health insurance in Ohio is available to eligible residents through the Medicaid program. If you’re struggling to afford healthcare, you may be able to get comprehensive coverage with no or very low out-of-pocket costs. To apply for Medicaid, visit the Ohio Benefits website or call 1-800-324-8680. If you have questions about your eligibility or benefits, contact the Ohio Department of Medicaid for assistance.

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