| Since the implementation of welfare reform, families across Ohio have made it a priority to become self-sufficient. In doing so, many families have opted to take entry-level positions that usually do not provide health care coverage that is both comprehensive and affordable.
But now there's a way. Healthy Start & Healthy Families are Medicaid programs that offer families, children (up to age 19) and pregnant women with limited income access to free and low-cost health coverage. This program has recently been expanded to provide coverage to more Ohio families than ever before! Plus, applying for coverage easy.
Healthy Start & Healthy Families are Medicaid programs that provide eligible Ohio families with comprehensive health coverage. This means families get coverage for all of the following: doctor visits, prescriptions, hospital care, immunizations, vision & dental care, substance abuse, mental health services and much more! Not only is this a great benefit package, but families who qualify for Healthy Start & Healthy Families will receive covered services at no cost.
Sounds great, but who qualifies?
Contrary to popular belief, most families receiving health coverage through Healthy Start |
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or Healthy Families are working families. Families with income up to 200 percent of the federal poverty level can qualify for some form of coverage under the Healthy Start & Healthy Families programs. That's more than $36,000 per year for a family of four!
Families can get an application or general information by calling the Consumer Hotline at 1-800-324-8680. Hotline staff can answer questions or provide assistance in filling out the short 2-page application. The application can also be found on the internet at jfs.ohio.gov/ohp or by contacting the local office of job and family services.
Outreach is being conducted at national, state and local levels to alert families about the availability of this health coverage. However many states, including Ohio, have found it difficult to find these families.
 Many families have heard of the Healthy Start & Healthy Families programs, but assume that it's part of welfare. This is NOT the case! Health care coverage can be stabilizing for families working hard to make ends meet. Do your part by telling everyone you know that this coverage exists and is available to more families than ever before!
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