Medicaid and MCHP
Medicaid (also called Medical Assistance or MA) and the Maryland Children’s Health Program (MCHP) are state health insurance programs for children and teens.
To get Medicaid or MCHP:
- Your child must live in Maryland (even if not living with you) and be under age 19.
- You must have a low income. For example:
| NUMBER OF PEOPLE IN YOUR FAMILY | IN 2012 YOUR INCOME EACH MONTH MUST BE LESS THAN:* |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,793 |
| 2 | $3,783 |
| 3 | $4,773 |
| 4 or more | For each additional person, add $990 to the number just above |
Attention: If your income is a little higher than the numbers below, you should still apply. Some of your income may not count.
- If your child is disabled and needs care in a hospital or nursing facility, only your child’s income counts.
Your child must be a U.S. citizen or meet certain immigration requirements to get Medicaid or MCHP.
If your child is not a citizen, see “Health insurance programs if you or your child is not a U.S. citizen” on the last page of this brochure.
Most people with Medicaid or MCHP get their health care through a managed care plan.
HealthChoice is Maryland’s statewide managed care program.
Medicaid and MCHP pay for all your child’s health care. Medicaid may even pay for medical care your child got in the three months before you apply. You may have to pay a small premium every month.
To apply for Medicaid and MCHP:
- Call the Maryland Medical Assistance Help Lines at 800-456-8900. Ask how to apply and what information you need to show.
- Go to http://mmcp.dhmh.maryland.gov/ for more information.
- You can also apply online at www.marylandSAIL.org.
To keep getting Medicaid and MCHP:
The Department of Health and Mental Hygiene will send you a form. Fill out the form and return it right away so your child’s health insurance does not get cut off.