Low Income Health Insurance in Minnesota

Minnesota has one of the nation's most progressive medical insurance programs for its low-income citizens. There are three publicly funded programs that provide health insurance for residents who have no other option through an employer or private plans. These programs are used by over half a million Minnesotans.

How Many Are Covered?

• According to the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS), 666,000 residents receive publicly funded health care through the state. Half of these people are under 21.

Budget

• DHS's budget is supplied through a combination of federal and state assistance as well as property tax levies. Approximately 73 percent of the organization's budget is geared towards funding these programs.

Minnesota's Medicaid

• Known as Medical Assistance, Minnesota's Medicaid program covers the vast majority of public health insurance members. It provides coverage for hospital stays, doctor visits and prescription drugs for low-income seniors, families with children and people on disability.

MinnesotaCare

• MinnesotaCare is available to anyone who cannot get access to health insurance through another means. It is subsidized by premiums, Medicaid financing and taxes on the health care industry. This program is especially beneficial to help get people off of welfare without losing coverage.

General Assistance

• Anyone who does not qualify for other programs is offered General Assistance Medical Care. This program covers more than 33,000 low-income adults between 21 and 64 with no dependents.