The state’s Medicaid system is known as the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System. It covers the cost of essential health care services for low-income families and individuals who reside in Arizona. The AHCCCS most often provides coverage for children, pregnant women, disabled persons and senior citizens. Some of the costs it covers include primary care, inpatient hospital services, ambulatory care, prescription medications and emergency transportation.
To be eligible for the AHCCCS state plan as an elderly person, applicants must be aged 65 years or older and meet the following financial requirements:
- Individual applicants may have up to $1,041 in income per month
- Married applicants may have up to $1,409 in income per month
There are no asset limitations in place for aged, blind or disabled persons who are applying for the AHCCCS state plan.
To apply for coverage, seniors who reside in Gilbert can
complete an application online or contact the AHCCCS at (800) 565-5465.
Arizona Long-Term Care System The ALTCS operates as part of the AHCCCS and provides coverage for senior citizens who require long-term care either at home or in an assisted living or nursing care facility. It pays for care services and the senior’s medical, dental and specialty care and prescription medication. All beneficiaries work with a designated case manager who’s responsible for coordinating their services.
To be eligible for the ALTCS, seniors must be 65 years of age or older and require a nursing level of care. They must meet the following financial requirements, as well:
- Have a maximum income of $2,313 per month
- Own no more than $2,000 in countable assets
While all sources of income count towards eligibility, there are some exempt assets, including the applicant’s house, car and personal belongings, such as clothing and household furnishings.
Seniors who reside in Gilbert can apply for the ALTCS program by calling the
Phoenix ALTCS office at (602) 417-6600.