Apple Health (Medicaid) Take Charge changing names and expanding coverage

Washington State Health Care Authority sent this bulletin at 06/10/2019 04:00 PM PDT

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Apple Health (Medicaid) Take Charge changing names and expanding coverage

What is happening?

Beginning July 1, 2019, the programs formerly known as Apple Health (Medicaid) Family Planning Only Extension and Take Charge are undergoing significant changes. These changes affect both the names of the programs and, more importantly, service offerings for clients who use the programs.

What are the changes?

Program names

The most noticeable change for clients and providers is a name change.

Family Planning Only – Pregnancy Related
Formerly known as the Family Planning Only extension (sometimes as Family Planning Only), this program serves recently pregnant women who lose Apple Health coverage after their 60-day post pregnancy coverage ends.
Family Planning Only
Formerly known as TAKE CHARGE, this program serves uninsured women and men seeking to prevent unintended pregnancy, and teens and domestic violence victims who need confidential family planning services.

Increased provider network

Historically, some of these services required that a client seek a specifically approved provider. With the July 1 changes, a client using either of the Family Planning Only programs can seek family planning services through any Apple Health provider.

Increased ease of enrollment

While enrollment for Family Planning Only – Pregnancy Related services is still automatic, Family Planning Only clients can now apply for benefits in person, by mail, phone, or fax.

Are there quick reference materials for my practice?

HCA has created an eligibility fact sheet which can be downloaded and printed.

Where can I learn more?

HCA will update our webpage closer to the July 1 implementation. This update will include full details on the new program names, client coverage, training and webinars, and background information. We will also send another provider alert to let you know the site has been updated.

Still have questions?

Please email our Apple Health Family Planning group.

About the Health Care Authority (HCA)

The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) is committed to whole-person care, integrating physical health and behavioral health services for better results and healthier residents.

HCA purchases health care for more than two million Washington residents through Apple Health (Medicaid), the Public Employees Benefits Board (PEBB) Program, and, beginning in 2020, the School Employees Benefits Board (SEBB) Program. As the largest health care purchaser in the state, we lead the effort to transform health care, helping ensure Washington residents have access to better health and better care at a lower cost.

Please do not reply directly to this message. For more information, visit the HCA website, where you'll also find contact information.

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The Washington State Health Care Authority (HCA) complies with all applicable federal and Washington state civil rights laws and is committed to providing equal access to our services. Visit HCA’s website to view complete nondiscrimination statements.