Missouri Medicaid Eligibility and Enrollment
- Learn about Medicaid eligibility for older adults in Missouri. Find out which health care services are covered under Missouri Medicaid and how to apply.
Older adults, disabled persons and families that are unable to afford health care may qualify for Medicaid coverage. This service is administered by each state with funding assistance from the federal government. Medicaid programs cover the cost of care when provided by a physician either in or out of a hospital setting as well as some supplementary services, such as medical transportation and prescription drugs. Additionally, some states have waiver programs that amend the regular Medicaid program to include coverage for additional health care services, such as long-term care.
Below, we discuss Missouri Medicaid and all of the important details seniors may need to know before applying, including eligibility requirements and coverage inclusions.
What Is Missouri Medicaid?
In Missouri, Medicaid is known as MO HealthNet. The program provides its beneficiaries with an identification card, known as a MO HealthNet Identification Card, which enables them to receive some health care services free of charge. MO HealthNet strives to help aged, blind and disabled persons access quality care, and it also provides coverage for pregnant women, families, uninsured women, women with breast or cervical cancer and children.
Older adults who are enrolled in Medicaid may also be eligible for Missouri Care Options, a Medicaid-funded program that provides home and community-based services for aged, blind and disabled adults.
What Does Missouri Medicaid Cover?
Medicaid in Missouri covers a variety of preventative health care services to help its beneficiaries maintain their overall health as well as necessary care for those who are sick. Covered services include:
- Check-ups with a primary care physician
- Ambulatory and inpatient hospital care
- X-rays and laboratory tests
- Skilled nursing care
- Emergency medical transportation
- Prescription drugs
- Limited dental care and audiology services
- Podiatrist care
- Home health care services
- Hospice care
- Mental health services, including addictions treatment
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
While most needs are covered under the traditional MO HealthNet program, some older adults may require additional long-term care and support, such as assistance with activities of daily living, respite care, housekeeping services and adult day care. These services can be obtained by enrolling in the Missouri Care Options program, which covers assisted living, housekeeping and nursing care for eligible individuals who live at home or in a long-term care facility.
Who Is Eligible for Medicaid in Missouri?
In Missouri, there are several eligibility requirements that must be met if an older adult wishes to receive Medicaid assistance. To be eligible, seniors must be:
- 65 years of age or older
- A full-time resident of Missouri
- A legal U.S. citizen or qualified alien
- In possession of no more than $5,000 in countable assets ($10,000 for couples)
- Earning a maximum of $904 per month ($1,222 for couples)
How Do I Enroll in Medicaid in Missouri?
Eligible seniors can apply for MO HealthNet online. When completing the application, it's important to have the following information on-hand:
- Full name and date of birth
- Social Security number
- Detailed income statements
Contact Information for Missouri Medicaid
MO HealthNet is operated by the Missouri Department of Social Services and can be contacted via telephone at (573) 751-3425.
