The Medicare & Medicaid Center

It is a fact that in today’s world, health insurance is very important. With the continuing rise of the cost of heath care, you too would definitely want to buy a health insurance policy. However, what if you are one of the low income families that can’t afford even the cheapest health insurance policy?

You have to face the fact that there are times in yours and your family’s life where emergency medical situations are necessary. You will never know what’s in store in your future. Because of this, you would want to try and get help from the federal and the state government regarding financial assistance for medical emergencies.

This medical assistance program provided by both the state and federal government is called Medicaid.

If you live in South Dakota, you will see that Medicaid will surely provide you with a lot of help. First of all, the Medicaid program is a federal and state government program that provides medical assistance to individuals and families with low income levels. However, it is important to remember that there are eligibility standards which you have to meet in order to qualify with the Medicaid program.

This may sound simple but the eligibility rules and requirements differ from state to state.

This means that in South Dakota, you have to first know about the eligibility rules before you apply. This can save you time and also money that is needed when you apply for the Medicaid program offered by the state of South Dakota.

In South Dakota, individuals and families will be eligible if they are:

• SSI recipients such as the aged, blind and disabled. And, nursing home residents can also take advantage of the Medicaid program provided by the state of South Dakota and the federal government if they meet the financial requirements.
• Family member who are qualified for TANF or also called the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. Qualified low income families can also take advantage of the Medicaid program.
• Individuals who have low income as stated by the eligibility rules and requirements in North Dakota are also welcome to join the Medicaid program offered by the state.
• Other qualified low income individuals, such as low income pregnant women and foster children can also join the South Dakota Medicaid program.

It is also important for you to remember that there are certain South Dakota Medicaid eligibility rules where you will be required to participate in a Managed Care Program.

The people who are required to participate in the Managed Care Program are low income children, the blind, disabled that meets that financial requirements, low income families and pregnant women.

However, if you already have Medicare and you live in a medical facility, such as a nursing home, you will not be enrolled in the program.

After enrolling in South Dakota Medicaid program, you will receive a Medicaid identification card. This particular card should be shown before you receive the medical services you need.

The payment for the medical services will not be given to you. However, the provider will submit a bill to Medicaid which in turn, Medicaid will pay.

These are some of the things you have to remember when applying for Medicaid in South Dakota. Always remember that the laws regarding the eligibility and rules differ from state to state. By knowing about the eligibility rules, you will be able to save time and money when applying for Medicaid.