Medicaid in Connecticut, known as HUSKY Health, is a state-run health insurance program designed to cover low-income individuals, families, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. It offers a comprehensive range of healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, preventive care, prescriptions, and dental and vision care for eligible participants.

Connecticut's Medicaid program is funded jointly by the state and the federal government, and it aims to ensure access to essential medical services for those who might otherwise be unable to afford them. The program has several categories, each targeting specific groups with varying eligibility criteria based on income, age, and medical needs.

Over the years, Connecticut has expanded its Medicaid coverage under the Affordable Care Act, allowing a broader population to benefit from the program. This expansion has significantly increased access to healthcare services, improving health outcomes across the state.

Medicaid in Connecticut covers a wide range of services to meet the diverse needs of its enrollees. Here's a breakdown of the key covered services, each with a brief description:

• Doctor Visits: Routine check-ups and consultations with primary care providers and specialists to manage health and diagnose conditions.
• Hospital Stays: Coverage for inpatient and outpatient hospital services, including surgeries, emergency care, and other medical procedures.
• Prescriptions: Access to prescribed medications, including generic and brand-name drugs, with some exceptions based on the state formulary.
• Dental Care: Preventive and restorative dental services, including cleanings, x-rays, fillings, and extractions.
• Vision Care: Examinations for vision, eyeglasses, and contact lenses, primarily for individuals under 21 and other eligible adults under certain conditions.
• Preventive Care: Screenings, vaccinations, and other preventive services to maintain health and prevent disease.
• Mental Health Services: Inpatient and outpatient services for mental health care, including counseling and psychiatric services.
• Substance Use Disorder Services: Treatment programs for substance use disorders, including detoxification, rehabilitation, and counseling.
• Long-term Care: Services and support for individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities, including home health care and nursing home care.
• Rehabilitative Services: Therapies to help recover from an injury, disability, or illness, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy.
• Maternity and Newborn Care: Comprehensive care during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, including prenatal visits and newborn care.
• Pediatric Services: Full range of health services for children and adolescents, including well-child visits, immunizations, and pediatric specialty care.
• Emergency Services: Emergency medical treatment and services for conditions that require immediate attention.

This list encapsulates the primary services covered under Medicaid in Connecticut, aiming to provide a comprehensive safety net of healthcare services for its beneficiaries.

Medicaid eligibility in Connecticut, as in other states, is determined by various factors, including income, family size, and specific circumstances such as pregnancy, age, and disability status. The eligibility levels are often expressed as a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), updated annually. Below are some of the specific eligibility requirements for different groups under Connecticut's Medicaid program:

• Adults (19-64) without Dependent Children: Eligible if their income is up to 138% of the FPL.
• Pregnant Women: Eligibility extends up to 263% of the FPL, ensuring pregnant women have access to necessary prenatal, delivery, and postpartum care.
• Children (under 19): The HUSKY A program covers children in families with incomes up to 201% of the FPL. HUSKY B (Children's Health Insurance Program - CHIP) covers children in families with higher incomes, up to 323% of the FPL, with a sliding scale for cost-sharing based on family income.
• Parents and Caretaker Relatives: Parents or caretaker relatives living with a child under 19 may be eligible if their household income is up to 160% of the FPL.
• Individuals with Disabilities and Elderly (65 and older): Eligibility for those who are disabled or elderly may be based on income, resources, and whether they receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Income limits for these groups can vary widely, and additional considerations may exist for those needing long-term care.

It's important to note that Connecticut periodically updates eligibility requirements and income thresholds to reflect changes in the Federal Poverty Level and legislative adjustments. Additionally, the state may have specific programs or waivers that expand eligibility beyond these general guidelines, especially for individuals with special healthcare needs or those requiring long-term services and support.

Consult the Connecticut Department of Social Services or a similar authoritative source for the most current and detailed eligibility information, as they can provide up-to-date guidelines and assistance with the application process.

Applying for Medicaid in Connecticut can be done through several channels, ensuring accessibility for all residents. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to apply, along with specific contact information:

Online

The easiest and quickest way to apply is through the Access Health CT website. This online marketplace allows you to fill out an application and instantly determine if you qualify for Medicaid (HUSKY Health) or other health insurance options.

By Phone

You can apply over the phone by calling the Access Health CT Call Center at 1-855-805-4325. Assistance is available in multiple languages, and there are TTY services for individuals with hearing impairments.

In Person

For those who prefer in-person assistance, you can apply at any local Department of Social Services office. To find the nearest location, visit the Connecticut State Department of Social Services website or call the DSS Client Information Line and Benefits Center at 1-855-6-CONNECT (1-855-626-6632; TTY 1-800-842-4524 for persons with speech or hearing difficulties).

By Mail

You can download and print an application form from the Department of Social Services website or the Access Health CT website. Once completed, mail it to the Department of Social Services, State of Connecticut, P.O. Box 1320, Manchester, CT 06045-1320.

Required Documents

Regardless of the method chosen to apply, you must provide certain information and documents, such as proof of income, identification, residency in Connecticut, and any other information relevant to your eligibility criteria (e.g., pregnancy, disability).

Provide accurate and complete information during your application to ensure a smooth process. Once your application is submitted, you will receive a notice of your eligibility status and further instructions on how to proceed if you are eligible for Medicaid or other health coverage options.

Renewing Medicaid coverage in Connecticut is important to ensure no interruption in your healthcare services. Here's what you need to know about the renewal process, including specific steps and contact information:

Medicaid coverage in Connecticut requires annual renewal. You will receive a renewal notice from the Department of Social Services (DSS) or Access Health CT reminding you to renew your coverage.

How to Renew

1. Online: The most convenient way to renew your Medicaid coverage is through the Access Health CT website. You can log in to your account to complete the renewal process.
2. By Phone: If you prefer to renew over the phone or need assistance, you can call the Access Health CT Call Center at 1-855-805-4325 or the DSS Client Information Line and Benefits Center at 1-855-6-CONNECT (1-855-626-6632; TTY 1-800-842-4524 for persons with speech or hearing difficulties).
3. In Person: You can also renew your Medicaid coverage in person at any local Department of Social Services office. To find your nearest office, visit the Connecticut State Department of Social Services website.
4. By Mail: If you receive a renewal form by mail, you can complete it and send it back to the address provided on the form. If you lost the form or did not receive one, contact DSS or Access Health CT for a replacement.

When renewing your Medicaid coverage, you may need to provide updated information about your income, household size, and any changes in your circumstances that could affect your eligibility. Be prepared with recent pay stubs, tax returns, and other relevant documentation.

By following these steps and utilizing the available resources, you can ensure a smooth renewal process for your Medicaid coverage in Connecticut.