About Low Income Health Insurance in Arizona

Low income health insurance helps families receive important health care benefits. This type of health insurance is available for financially needy residents of Arizona through the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) and KidsCare. Effective January 1, 2010, KidsCare was frozen to new applications due to funding concerns. Check with the AHCCCS website for policy revisions.

Features of AHCCCS

• AHCCCS is similar to a health maintenance organization or HMO. Like an HMO, beneficiaries can choose one primary health provider as their first point of reference for all of their non-emergent medical needs. That provider gives the beneficiary a referral to a specialist if needed. This is a state-funded program for very low income families and individuals. Those who qualify do not pay premiums.

Covered Groups

• Covered groups include families with children, children, pregnant women, seniors 65 and older (including those needing help with Medicare costs), those who are blind, disabled, delayed or needing nursing home or long-term care, and some other low-income adults without children.

Income Limits

• The applicant must have an income that is less than or equal to 100% of the federal poverty level.

Covered Services

• As of 2010, there are 17 covered services, including doctor visits, physical exams, labs and X-rays, prescription drugs, emergency services, pre-natal and post-natal care and hospital services. Check with the AHCCCS website for up-to-date information about covered services.

Covered Services for 21 and Under

• Additional benefits for those 21 and under include eye exams, eyeglasses, dental screenings, dental treatments, hearing exams and hearing aids--if needed. They are also eligible for Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT). Check with the AHCCCS website for up-to-date information about covered services.