Michigan Department of Health and Human Services
DescriptionThe Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is a department of the State of Michigan, headquarters in Lansing, which provides direct public assistance, family and child welfare programs, and administers managed care health plan. The department was established in 1965. It provides a wide range of health and social services for all ages, with particular attention to health problems for children, teenagers, and adults. Through the MDHHS, an individual can seek help through many different programs that address a range of health concerns, including diabetes, smoking and obesity, HIV/AIDS, and employment opportunities.
In addition to its main role of providing health care, the department is also responsible for ensuring the quality of health care for those that are indigent, disabled or disadvantaged. The department offers various programs, such as Medicaid, which is designed to cover the medical expenses of low-income families and individuals. The programs cover a wide variety of medical conditions, ranging from AIDS and cancer to diabetes, pregnancy, and child care.
The Michigan State Department of Health and Human Service Division of Family Services administers the Family Planning Option (FPO). The Family Planning Option program provides women with information and alternatives on health plans in Michigan. Michigan residents may select either Medicaid which is jointly run by the federal and state governments, or a private health plan through the Health Plan Irregularities, Inc. (HPO). Residents who do not have health insurance may apply for an FPO. Through the plan, they can get health programs, like Medicaid, that would provide basic coverage.
In order to be eligible for the Medicaid program, an individual must be able to present a real need for Medicaid benefits. The family must also complete an application that contains the income and assets information necessary for the application to be accepted. Those who are granted eligibility for the program are guaranteed timely payments until their eligibility is terminated. The Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) of 1996 provide extra protections to people using the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act for health plans in Michigan.
The Michigan State Department of Health and Human services has developed an Electronic Health Records (EHR) software program that will replace the current paper-based patient records system. The EHR software program will enable patients to electronically file their claims, see their medical history, and see their progress on the charts in their accounts. They will also be able to send electronic letters to physicians or other health care professionals and download data from their records quickly. However, to be enrolled in the program, patients must have their own personal computer, laptop, or handheld PDA. This will allow the patient to continue to use the same health plan, no matter where they go. The new system also eliminates the need to sign in and out at different offices.
Anyone who chooses to purchase their own health insurance in Michigan will have to meet certain criteria. In order to qualify, one must be age forty-five or over; be a resident of Michigan for six months or more; and have Medicare or Medicaid coverage. People who purchase their own coverage will have access to a better variety of health care benefits than those who are covered by an employer’s health insurance plan. These additional benefits can include prescription drugs, wellness exams, emergency care, chiropractic visits, and hearing aids.
The state of Michigan has three major health insurance plans. The Blue Cross has Michigan Health Plan A, which covers catastrophic medical expenses, medical care, disability income, and vision care; the Michigan Health Care Plan B covers catastrophic medical expenses, medical care, disability income, vision care, hospitalization, dental care, and emergency care; and the Michigan Employer Assistance Plan has disability income, medical care, and vision care as well as copayments for doctor visits and premiums for catastrophic health insurance. Each of these plans will vary in the coverage they offer and the premiums they charge. For more information regarding the plans and the providers offering them, patients should contact the offices of an agent in Michigan. These agents can provide patients with specific information about the plan, as well as details about how to apply for the plan.
One of the most important aspects of the health insurance plan is the network of doctors and hospitals within the plan’s network. This will ensure that patients will receive the best possible medical care, regardless of where they live. Each plan will cover different types of medical care, including hospitals, home health care, and hospice care. Because many people are living longer and suffering from age-related illnesses, the need for health care is on the rise. The expansion of Medicaid in the state of Michigan will make the health care system even more comprehensive. Patients and their families can be confident that if they have a health condition, they will be able to receive quality health care in their area.