If you think you may be eligible for Medicaid, your first step is to fill out and turn in an application.  You will find a copy of this form by clicking on Medicaid (Title 19). This site also has details on where to apply. It tells you when Medicaid could begin.

You can also get a form at your local DHS office. Click on local DHS offices to see a list. This link tells you the address and phone number for each county office.
 

1. The IMW will also ask you about any other resources that could be used to help with your medical costs.  For instance, you might have veterans' benefits or an insurance plan through work. You will need to let the IMW know about any and all of the resources.  That's because when you apply for Medicaid, you agree to also apply for and collect any other benefits to which you're entitled.
   
   When Medicaid receives bills for your health care services, they make sure that those other resources are also used to pay for the cost of your care. 
    
2. Once you are eligible, you will receive a Medicaid card annually for yourself and for any other family members who are eligible. Review your card(s) closely. They contain information you must have. This includes your ID number and a phone number to call if you have questions about a bill.
   
   
3. Always take the card with you each time you go for health care. Show your Medicaid card each time you visit a healthcare provider. Be sure they make a record that you are on Medicaid. When healthcare providers know that you are covered by Medicaid, they send the bill for your health care straight to Medicaid.  If they don't know you have Medicaid, you might receive the bill. That can cause problems and delays.
   
   Sometimes you may be asked to make a small copayment for the service you receive. This is like the copayment others may need to make for their private insurance plan.  You should pay for this at the provider's office or you might be billed for it.
   
   
4. You may be asked to enroll in Managed Health Care if you live in a county where there is a choice among MediPASS providers who will plan and manage your health care. An HMO (health maintenance organization) may also be an option in some Iowa counties. Click on Your Choice and you'll find a booklet with more information about Managed Health Care.
   If you live in one of these counties, you will get a Managed Health Care packet soon after you learn you're eligible for Medicaid. In the packet will be a letter you'll need to return to the state. 
   
   The letter will ask you to choose a MediPASS provider or an HMO. It's very important for you to do this. If you don't name the MediPASS provider you'd like to see, a provider will be assigned to you. You may find that you don't like this provider as well as one you choose yourself. By the way, there can be different MediPASS providers for different family members if you prefer.
   
   
5. Ask questions of the IMW who is handling your case.  Be sure you know what services you may receive through Medicaid.  If you think of something later on that you're not sure about, call back.

Please click on Providers, Services, and Billing. This web page tells about the services that you can get as a Medicaid member. It also talks about how billing is handled for Medicaid services.