Georgia Medicaid FAQ

Medicaid is funded by both the state and federal governments, but it is managed by the states. In Georgia, Medicaid is administered by the Medical Assistance Division, the largest division in the state's community health department system. Medicaid is meant to help individuals and families with low incomes and few resources obtain medical services.

Am I Eligible?

• Not everyone in Georgia who desires it can receive Medicaid. You must first be a resident of Georgia as well as a citizen or legal resident of the U.S. Elderly, disabled or blind individuals who already receive Supplementary Security Income benefits may be eligible, along with those living in nursing homes or who receive care and nursing services at home. Aged, disabled or blind people who have Medicare Part A and incomes of less than 100 percent of the federal poverty level are also eligible to get Medicaid benefits, as well as any terminally ill person in the last six months of life. Pregnant women and women with infants must be within 200 percent of the federal poverty limit. Any person who has income levels and assets of less than the maximum allowable amount are eligible for Medicaid as well. For a family of three, this monthly income maximum for Medicaid was $424 in 2010

How Do I Apply?

• Obtain and complete an application. These are available in both English and Spanish at the Georgia Division of Family & Children Services offices or online at the DFCS website. Submit the application in person at a DFCS office or by mail, fax, email or telephone. You should receive a receipt of application within 24 hours. You will also need to provide proof of residency, citizenship or legal status, proof of income and valid Social Security numbers.

How Long Does It Take?

• How long your Medicaid application takes to process depends on your medical condition. Applications from pregnant women or those with a newborn are processed within 10 days. Applications from qualified Medicare beneficiaries are also processed within 10 days while applications from disabled people are processed within 60 days. All others are completed within 45 days.

What Services Are Covered By Medicaid?

• Medicaid pays for a number of health services in Georgia, including prescription drugs, long-term nursing care, hospice care, doctor's visits, hospital treatment, dental and vision, mental health care and emergency room services.