Back in the beginning of May I decided to apply for Medicaid. Not something I ever thought I would do but with the cost of my prescription adding to my debt, I bit the bullet. At first, it felt degrading but I now realize how much I need it. Thank GOD I haven't gotten sick or needed to go to the hospital since I have not had health insurance since December of 2010.
The process of applying isn't easy. I would get a letter asking for information such as a bank statement and a copy of my life insurance policy. Then a few weeks later, I would get another letter asking for proof of citizenship and more more bank statements. Why not ask for this all at one time, bueracecy??? Last week I got a letter stating that I was approved for limited assistance, family planning care only. Like I really need this. I was finally able to get through via their toll free number and speak with some one.
She reviewed my records which indicated that due to my unemployment, I made to much money to qualify. I advised the customer representative that I was no longer receiving these benefits. I previously told them via an email and the second request for more information. The woman I spoke to was of great assistance. She gave me my case worker's name and I let her know that I had recently tried to contact her and that her voice mail was full.
The customer representative documented my call and told me to call back Thursday in the event that my case worker doesn't call me back. it will then be escalated to a super advisor who wold be able to assist me. I think when I speak with them next week, I am also going to ask for something like food stamps.
I am the sole support for a family of 5. We hit a point where we had to choose between a place to live and health insurance. I have not had health insurance in over 2 years. Luckily I haven't been horribly ill or in need of medical care. My children all receive government medical coverage. Apparently my husband and I have too much saved up for retirement (IRAs and life insurance) to qualify. We also receive food stamps to the tune of about $350 a month.
ReplyDeleteI was embarrassed at first to apply and to actually receive the care, but we have needed the medical attention for the children and I feel much better knowing that they have coverage. The food stamps make it possible for me to serve my children something other than spaghetti for dinner (I was feeding a family of 5 on about $60 a week for months before we applied).
In this day and this economy, many people are turning to the government to help them. I hope they find you some sort of aid.