How to Determine Eligibility for Pennsylvania Medical Assistance

Medical Assistance is the name of the Pennsylvania state Medicaid program. Medical Assistance is a health insurance program for Pennsylvania residents with low or no income. It is available to adults and children who meet eligibility requirements. Eligibility is determined by factors such as income, household size, age and disability, and certain health conditions, such as pregnancy. The Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare is the agency that administers the Medical Assistance program.

Instructions

• 1

  Apply for Pennsylvania Medical Assistance through the COMPASS website. Set up and account and log in to begin using the system. Click "Apply Now" to begin a questionnaire that gathers information about your insurance needs, income and household size.

• 2

  Submit your application online or mail a copy to your county assistance office. Wait to hear back from the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare with an approval or denial of benefits. You will be notified if you are eligible for the program and how you can access services. Check the status of your application online and be sure to review any written notifications they provide you by mail.

• 3

  Call the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare's HELPLINE at 800-692-7462 to speak to a consumer representative. Inquire about eligibility for Medical Assistance and apply for the program by phone if you believe you meet eligibility requirements. The HELPLINE is staffed from 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday.

• 4

  Visit your County Assistance Office to meet with a representative who can help you determine your eligibility for Medical Assistance. Each Pennsylvania county has at least one assistance office. A representative can help you apply, explain programs and provide a translator if necessary.

• 5

  Review the "Medical Assistance General Eligibility Requirements" page of the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare's website. This page includes information about general eligibility and income requirements for the Medical Assistance program. It also gives details about how eligibility is determined.