Augusta Health offers Medicaid for adults information session

FISHERSVILLE – The Commonwealth of Virginia estimates that 400,000 Virginians are newly eligible for low-cost health care coverage that begins January 1, 2019. According to the VHHA Medicaid Enrollment Task Force, more than 126,000 newly eligible individuals had enrolled in Medicaid as of Dec. 4. 

Eligible adults include some who work but do not have insurance through an employer, or who previously did not qualify for coverage. Many in the community still have questions about eligibility and the enrollment process.

“It’s critically important that hard-working Virginians will have access to the health care they need to be productive in their jobs and to enjoy a high quality of life," said Jennifer Lee, agency director for the Department of Medical Assistance Services.

To help answer those questions, Augusta Health is hosting a second public information session, presented by Erin Dalrymple of Shenandoah Valley Social Services, on eligibility, coverage and the enrollment processes for residents in the community.

The new coverage is available to men and women ages 19 through 64 who are not eligible for Medicare and who meet income requirements, which vary by family size. For example, a single adult with an annual income at or below $16,754 may be eligible for coverage. An adult in a three-person family with a total household annual income at or below $28,677 may be eligible.

“Thousands of Virginia adults will soon benefit from a comprehensive package of health services, including coverage for visits to primary and specialty care doctors, hospital stays and prescription medications,” said Secretary of Health and Human Resources Daniel Carey. “Individuals with chronic diseases will have access to the sustained care that is essential to maintain their health. Virginians requiring behavioral health and addiction treatment will be connected to a robust array of services.”

The free session will be 2-4 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 11, in the Augusta Community Care Building on the Augusta Health Campus at 64 Sports Medicine Drive in Fishersville. 

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For more information, call (540) 245-7329.

Monique Calello can be reached at mcalello@newsleader.com.