Covered so she can care for herself and others

Amy standing in front of grove of trees, smiling

In the past year, Amy learned no matter your job or how well you plan, you never know when you’ll need extra help. “I couldn’t plan for a pandemic or for my mom to go through cancer,” she said. “I had the job, I had the degree, but I still needed a little extra help to get my family through this time.”

Amy realized she needed to leave her job so she could care for her mom who lived out of state. With her husband working part time to finish his degree, she wasn’t sure how they were going to get insurance. Private health insurance was too expensive but going without coverage wasn’t an option with the medications she takes.

Before losing her employer insurance, Amy went to the doctor for a wellness visit where the nurse told her about Washington Apple Health (Medicaid) coverage and encouraged her to apply. Amy thought Medicaid was only for individuals 65 years or older or with disabilities and was relieved to learn about an affordable option.

Amy applied for coverage online through wahealthplanfinder.org and qualified for free health coverage. “I didn’t realize I could have health care while I tried to take care of my family,” she said. Amy was able to make an informed decision about what managed care plan was right for her and found a primary care provider that accepts her plan.

Apple Health covers physical and behavioral health services. Amy has chronic health concerns like asthma and ongoing physical therapy for a titanium spine. She went online to hca.wa.gov/apple-health and was glad to see these crucial health needs—including mental health treatment—were all covered under Apple Health. With her health care covered, Amy can focus on applying for a job and caring for her mom while she finishes her cancer treatment.

Not sure if Apple Health is right for you? View the eligibility requirements and see if you qualify for free or low-cost coverage through Washington Healthplanfinder.

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