Are you a resident of Williamson County, Texas, struggling to afford necessary medical care? The Williamson County Indigent Health Care Program is here to provide a vital safety net. This program is specifically designed to assist low-income adults in our community who do not qualify for other state or federal health insurance programs like Medicaid. It ensures access to essential medical services, helping to maintain the health and well-being of our Williamson County neighbors.
Understanding the Williamson County Indigent Health Care Program
The Williamson County Indigent Health Care Program acts as a crucial resource for individuals facing financial hardship and lacking health insurance options. It is funded by Williamson County to provide a range of medical benefits to eligible residents. This program recognizes that access to healthcare is a fundamental need, and it strives to bridge the gap for those who might otherwise go without essential medical attention. It’s important to understand that this program is distinct from state or federal programs and is tailored to the specific needs of Williamson County residents.
Benefits of the Program
The Williamson County Indigent Health Care Program offers a comprehensive suite of benefits to support your healthcare needs. These benefits are designed to cover medically necessary services, ensuring you receive the care you require without facing overwhelming medical bills. The program includes:
- Doctor Visits & Check-ups: Coverage for medically necessary office visits, including annual physical exams to help you stay proactive about your health.
- Diagnostic Services: Access to diagnostic testing and imaging services, crucial for accurate diagnoses and effective treatment plans.
- Specialist Care: Referrals to specialist physicians when needed, ensuring you have access to expert medical advice and treatment.
- Hospital Care: Assistance with hospitalization expenses for up to 30 days or $30,000 in eligible expenses, whichever comes first, providing crucial support during serious health events.
- Emergency Services: Coverage for necessary emergency room care, ensuring you can seek immediate medical attention when urgent health issues arise.
- Vision Care: Prescription eyewear coverage every two years, supporting your vision health.
- Prescription Medications: Access to prescription medications, limited to three per month with a maximum 30-day supply for each, helping manage ongoing health conditions.
- Mental Health Support: Mental health services, including counseling, recognizing the importance of mental well-being as part of overall health.
It’s important to note that Wilco Care, through this program, contributes up to $30,000 of eligible expenses to healthcare providers per program year, offering significant financial relief for participants.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Williamson County Indigent Health Care Program, you must meet specific criteria to ensure that assistance reaches those who need it most. The requirements are designed to align with the program’s mission of serving the most vulnerable residents. Eligibility criteria include:
- Residency: You must be a resident of Williamson County and be 18 years of age or older.
- Income Level: Your income must be less than 21% of the Federal Poverty Level, demonstrating significant financial need. To understand the current Federal Poverty Level guidelines, you can refer to the Federal Poverty Level guidelines.
- Resource Limits: Your countable resources must be under the limits defined by the Health and Safety Code Chapter 61- Sec 61.008, ensuring the program supports those with limited assets.
- Social Security Card: You must possess a Social Security card.
- Medicaid Ineligibility: You must be ineligible for Medicaid, confirming that this program serves as an alternative for those without access to other government health insurance.
Additional Resources and Support in Williamson County
Beyond the Indigent Health Care Program, Williamson County offers further resources to support residents’ health and well-being:
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Breast Cancer Program: For residents concerned about breast health, the Breast Cancer Initiative provides prevention, screening, and treatment services. This program is funded by Williamson County and the Federal Government, aiming to make breast cancer care accessible to uninsured residents. Learn more at www.wcchd.org/healthy_people/well_woman.php.
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State Programs: Explore additional assistance programs offered by the State of Texas by visiting www.yourtexasbenefits.com. This website provides information and application portals for programs like SNAP food benefits, health care coverage, TANF cash help, and WIC food benefits.
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Find Local Resources by Zip Code: Need help finding resources near you? Use the online search tool to locate services related to food, transportation, education, job training, and more by entering your zip code. If you need to find your zip code, visit www.whatismyzip.com.
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Mental Health Services: For mental health support, Bluebonnet Trails Community Services offers a 24-Hour Crisis Hotline at 1-800-841-1255.
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Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS): For more information on the state-level County Indigent Health Care Program, visit The County Indigent Health Care Program provided by Texas DSHS.
If you believe you may be eligible for the Williamson County Indigent Health Care Program or have questions about any of these resources, please reach out to the Healthcare Helpline at 512-248-3252 for personalized assistance and guidance. Accessing healthcare can be challenging, but Williamson County is committed to supporting its residents through programs like these.
