Commonwealth Care Enrollment Opens Today
MASSACHUSETTS – Starting today, (October 2, 2006), low income and otherwise uninsured Massachusetts residents who formerly used uncompensated care are now eligible to apply to the state’s new low cost health care insurance program called “Commonwealth Care”.
The program, available to residents who’s income is below 100 percent of the federal poverty level ($9,800 for an individual) will provide participants with; inpatient hospital and outpatient services, prescription drugs, mental health, substance abuse, vision and dental services, including preventive and restorative procedures.
Enrollees may receive Commonwealth Care with no premiums or deductibles, but will pay (“very modest”) co-payments.
Applicants will be notified by the end of January (2007) if they have been approved for coverage, and will then have 14 days to select from plans offered by; Boston Medical Center HealthNet Plan, Fallon Community Health Plan, Neighborhood Health Plan or Network Health.
Beginning January 1, 2007, a premium assistance program will open enrollment for residents with incomes above $9,800 and below $29,400.
Individuals who believe they are eligible can call a Commonwealth Care customer service representative toll-free Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-877-MA-ENROLL (1-877-623-6765), (or by TTY at 1-877-623-7773).
Applications are also available through hospitals and community health centers where staff has been trained to help people file applications online.
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Related Link: <http://www.mass.gov/>