Louisiana Medicaid provides health coverage to needy individuals and families in the State of Louisiana. Medicaid is established in all states in the US with different requirements per state but the program generally controlled by the federal government. In Louisiana, Medicaid is under the Department of Health and Hospitals.

In the State of Louisiana alone, 1.2 million people receive the medical benefits of Medicaid. The program covers the full range of health services including.

• Inpatient and outpatient hospital services
• Nursing home services
• Physician services
• Lab and x-ray services
• Family planning services

The aim of Medicaid is to ensure that Louisianan families, especially those with children, receive medical coverage even if they have a low income. The program is also intended to help the needy elderly and the physically disabled.

Eligibility Requirements

Medicaid generally seeks to help:

• Disabled persons. The Social Security Administration's (SSA) definition of 'disabled' can be found here.
• Pregnant women
• Children aged 18 and below
• Persons who have a corrected vision that is still poorer than 20/200
• Persons who have low incomes and receive Medicare

If you fall into any of the above categories, then you are most likely eligible for Medicaid.

Nonetheless, eligibility is largely dependent on the applicant meeting the federal poverty level income guidelines. These can viewed here.

You qualify for Medicaid automatically if:

• Your family receives aid through FITAP (Family Independence Temporary Assistance Program)
• You receive help from SSA through the Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Find some commonly asked questions about Medicaid and their useful answers here.

Medicaid Application Instructions

The fastest way to apply for Louisiana Medicaid, for those who have a computer and access to the Internet, is to visit the Louisiana Medicaid Online Application Center and apply online using this link.

It is recommendable to create an online account with the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals using the application center so you can preserve your details for easier application and renewal. Also, an online application submitted through the application center will immediately reach the Medicaid Office without the delays that sometimes hamper application via fax or mail.

You may also download an application, print it out and mail it to the Medicaid office after completing your details. The application form can be downloaded here.

If you're renewing your Medicaid cover, download the renewal form here.

Mail the completed form along with documents that shows your income level, proof of pregnancy or any other required documents to the Louisiana Medicaid office. The address is:

P.O. Box 91278
Baton Rouge, LA 70821-9278

You may also fax them to: 1.877.523.2987

You may also get in contact with a Medicaid Application Center where you will be assisted to apply for the program. Find the location of the office
closest to you by checking out this map.

Alternatively, call 1.888.342.6207 and ask for directions to the nearest application center. If you wish to apply over the phone, call the same number and a Medicaid will assist you.