North Carolina is expanding Medicaid coverage on Dec. 1.
This means that the rules around who is eligible for low-cost or no-cost healthcare coverage in our state are changing, and an estimated 600,000 adults are now eligible for healthcare coverage through North Carolina’s Medicaid program. For example, single adults making about $20,000 a year or a family of four making about $41,000 may now qualify for Medicaid.
Medicaid covers regular preventative care, treatment for chronic health conditions, physician and hospital services, maternity care, prescription drugs, behavioral health and more. Those newly eligible for Medicaid coverage through expansion may begin applying on Dec. 1, 2023.
Individuals can apply online at epass.nc.gov or visit their local Division of Social Services (DSS) office. Central Carolina Hospital is also here to help. They can assist with determining eligibility, exploring coverage options and navigating the enrollment process. You can reach them in several ways:
*Call 919.774.2129. You can speak to a Medicaid eligibility specialist over the phone or make an appointment for an in-person visit at Central Carolina Hospital. Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM.
*Visit their website at CentralCarolinaHosp.com/Medicaid.
*You also can visit their hospital in person at 1135 Carthage Street in Sanford.
There are several North Carolina Medicaid plans to choose from, and Central Carolina Hospital is considered in-network with all of them. The plans are:
*Amerihealth Caritas
*Carolina Complete Health
*Healthy Blue (Blue Cross Blue Shield of NC)
*United Healthcare Community Plan
*WellCare
Central Carolina Hospital is here to help you identify what’s right for you and your family, so please reach out to with questions or for enrollment assistance. To learn more, visit www.CentralCarolinaHosp.com.
Feature photo: Central Carolina Hospital/Courtesy photo.
~Written by Sandhills Sentinel contributor Jessi Ayers, MBA, chief financial officer at Central Carolina Hospital.
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