Created in 1965, Medicaid is a joint federal-state program that provides health care services to low-income people across the United States. More than 65 million people receive health care coverage through Medicaid, and over 2 million of them are in Michigan. Michigan’s Medicaid program covers many necessary medical services, including:
- Doctor visits
- Emergency services
- Hospital care
- Surgery
- Mental health services
- Nursing home care
- Private duty nursing
In Michigan, seniors who receive federal Supplemental Security Income payments are automatically eligible for Medicaid. Other Michigan residents may qualify if they:
- Are U.S. nationals, U. S. citizens or permanent residents
- Earn less than $16,612 before tax annually ($22,491 for couples)
- Have countable assets of less than $2,000 ($3,000 for couples)
To find out if you are eligible or apply for coverage, visit the
MI Bridges website. Michigan residents who can’t apply online can complete a
paper application. For help applying for Michigan Medicaid, call (855) 276-4627.
MI Choice Waiver Program The MI Choice waiver program, often called “the waiver,” may help Farmington Hills seniors pay for assisted living services. While the waiver does not contribute to room and board costs, it may pay for some of the
services provided in a home for the aged. Some of the waiver services that can be provided in these homes (also known as assisted living facilities) include:
- Community transportation
- Counseling
- Specialized medical equipment
- Private duty nursing
- Community living supports
Seniors can apply if they meet the waiver’s
eligibility requirements. The income and resource requirements are the same as regular Medicaid. In addition, participants must have a medical need for nursing home care.
Area Agency on Aging 1-B processes applications. To contact the AAA, call (248) 357-2255. Since this program is not an entitlement, there may be a waiting list to receive services.