How to qualify for AHCCCS, Arizona’s Low Income Health Plan

If you can’t afford health insurance, you may qualify for Arizona’s Medicaid program for low-income residents. The program is called AHCCCS (pronounced Access), which stands for Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System.

AHCCCS is open to residents of Tucson, Phoenix, Mesa, and all of Arizona. If you apply for AHCCCS coverage, you will hear back within 45 days whether you are eligible, 20 days if you are pregnant.

If you qualify, your monthly cost for the plan is zero. Funding for the plan is provided by the state, federal, and county governments. The plan works similar to an HMO. You pick a primary care physician (PCP) and see that doctor for all of your health issues. If you need to visit a specialist, you will see your PCP first and obtain a referral.

The AHCCCS plans offer very extensive coverage that includes office visits, hospitalization, immunizations, maternity, emergency care, physical exams, and much more.

If your family’s income is too high to qualify for AHCCCS, your children may qualify for another program called KidsCare. However, enrollment in the program is currently frozen due to lack of funding. You can still apply, and your kids will be added to the KidsCare waiting list. The KidsCare plan is not free like AHCCCS. Depending on your income, you will pay up to $50 per month for one child, and no more than $70 a month total for all the children in your household.

To view income limits and other requirements for AHCCCS or KidsCare, click here.

To apply for AHCCCS or KidsCare, click here.

If you do not qualify for these state plans, simply fill out our online form, and we will send you a quote with all your various health insurance options.