Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  How do I apply for Medicaid health Insurance?

A:  You can apply for all Medicaid health insurance programs at the local Department of Family Services (DFS) offices, or by calling the DFS office.  They will mail you an application.  Make sure the Medicaid application is accurately completed with all applicable information.  Be sure that you sign and date the application and amail or take your completed application to your local DFS office.  A friend or relative may help you apply for Medicaid.

Q:  Can I get Medicaid for past months?

A:  For some Medicaid health insurance programs, DFS can look back three months from the date of application to see if you may be eligible for benefits.  Contact your local DFS office to apply for Medicaid health insurance for past months.

Q:  How do I use the Medicaid card?

A:  Show your card to your medical provider when you check in for your appointment.  It is helpful to have your card with you at all times in case of an emergency.  You must use a doctor, clinic or hospital that accepts Medicaid health insurance or your medical bills will not be paid by Medicaid.  Ask the health care provider if they accept Medicaid before services are provided.

Q:  What if I have Medicaid health insurance and other health insurance or Medicare?

A:  Present the Medicaid card, along with proof of other health insurance or Medicare coverage, to the provider.  Medical providers need this information to bill private insurance and Medicare before billing Medicaid.  If you have private insurance or Medicare, those insurance companies must be billed first.  Medicaid will only pay after all other insurance has been billed and paid their portion.

Q:  What is Estate Recovery?

A:  Estate recovery helps the State of Wyoming generate funds to pay medical care costs, through the Medicaid program, for the increasing number of people in need of care.  The federal government requires state Medicaid programs to seek repayment from the estates of certain deceased clients who have benefited from the Medicaid program.  The State will pursue recovery of medical care costs paid by the Medicaid program from the estate of an Medicaid recipient, age 55 years or older, when he/she received medical assistance, or if the person was an inpatient in a medical institution when he/she received medical assistance.