Emergency Medicaid
A simplified guide to Emergency Medicaid, how to apply, who qualifies, how long it takes, and what care is covered.
Who Can Get Emergency Medicaid?
- You have a medical emergency
- You live in the state where you apply
- Your income is low enough (ask the hospital for help with this)
A medical emergency is when you need care right away because:
- Your health is in danger
- Your body is not working right
- You could get very sick without help
- You are having a baby
Very Important: Everyone Can Get Emergency Medicaid
You do NOT need papers to get Emergency Medicaid. It does not matter where you are from.
Emergency Medicaid helps ALL people who need emergency care, no matter what. You do not need to show immigration documents.
Everyone can get help, including:
- People without papers
- People waiting for asylum
- People with expired visas
- DACA recipients
- People with TPS
- Victims of trafficking
- New immigrants
- Green card holders
How to Apply for Emergency Medicaid
Get Emergency Care First
Go to the emergency room or call 911. Do not wait because you are worried about money or papers.
Remember: Hospitals must help you in an emergency. They cannot turn you away.
Apply for Emergency Medicaid
You can apply before, during, or after you get care. Ask the hospital social worker to help you.
Where to Apply
- • At the hospital
- • Local Medicaid office
- • Community health center
How to Apply
- • In person
- • By phone
- • By mail
Give Them Your Information
Bring proof of who you are, where you live, and how much money you make. Do not worry if you do not have everything.
Tip: Many states will accept your word if you do not have papers. The hospital can help you get what you need.
Wait for an Answer
It can take 45 to 90 days to get an answer. Call the Medicaid office if they ask for more information.
Good News: Emergency Medicaid can pay for care you got up to 3 months before you applied!
Is Emergency Medicaid Safe to Use?
Emergency Medicaid usually does NOT hurt your immigration case because:
- It is only for emergencies
- It is not regular Medicaid
- The government says emergency care is okay
- Your health comes first
Keep these things in mind:
- Laws can change
- Everyone is different
- Talk to an immigration lawyer if worried
- Do not skip emergency care because of fear
What Does Emergency Medicaid Cover?
- Emergency room visits
- Emergency surgery
- Ambulance rides
- Emergency medicine
- Emergency dialysis
- Mental health crisis
- Labor and delivery
- Emergency pregnancy care
- Pregnancy problems
- Emergency C-sections
- Problems after birth
- Newborn emergency care
- Regular check-ups
- Preventive care
- Elective procedures
- Ongoing care
- Dental care
- Vision care