Key Facts for Louisiana
Healthy Louisiana (Medicaid)
Louisiana expanded Medicaid in 2016, becoming the first Deep South state to do so. The state's Medicaid managed care program, Healthy Louisiana, provides comprehensive coverage to eligible residents through contracted managed care organizations.
Because Louisiana expanded Medicaid, there is no coverage gap. Adults earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level can access affordable coverage through Healthy Louisiana.
Who Qualifies for Louisiana Medicaid?
- Adults ages 19-64: Up to 138% FPL (about $20,120/year for an individual)
- Children: Up to 255% FPL through LaCHIP (Louisiana Children's Health Insurance Program)
- Pregnant women: Up to 214% FPL
- Elderly and disabled: Based on SSI eligibility and income/asset limits
- Parents/Caretakers: Based on household income up to 138% FPL
Healthy Louisiana Managed Care Plans
Most Louisiana Medicaid recipients must choose a managed care organization (MCO). Current MCO options include:
- Aetna Better Health of Louisiana
- AmeriHealth Caritas Louisiana
- Healthy Blue
- Louisiana Healthcare Connections
- UnitedHealthcare Community Plan
Healthy Louisiana Benefits
- Doctor visits and preventive care
- Hospital services (inpatient and outpatient)
- Prescription drugs
- Mental health and substance use disorder services
- Dental services
- Vision services
- Transportation to medical appointments
- Family planning services
How to Apply for Louisiana Medicaid
- Online: Visit CAFE Louisiana
- Phone: Call 1-888-342-6207
- In Person: Visit your local Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) office
- Through HealthCare.gov: The marketplace will screen you for Medicaid eligibility
Health Insurance Marketplace
Louisiana uses the federal Health Insurance Marketplace at HealthCare.gov. Residents who earn above 138% FPL can shop for private insurance plans with potential premium subsidies.
November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. Enroll by December 15 for coverage starting January 1, 2025. Medicaid applications are accepted year-round.
How to Enroll
- Visit HealthCare.gov
- Create an account or log in
- Complete your application with income and household information
- You'll be screened for Medicaid eligibility first
- If not eligible for Medicaid, compare marketplace plans
- Select a plan and complete enrollment
Special Enrollment Periods
You can enroll outside of Open Enrollment if you experience a qualifying life event such as losing other coverage, getting married, having a baby, or moving to Louisiana.
Average Costs in Louisiana
Health insurance costs in Louisiana are generally moderate, with several insurers competing in the marketplace:
- Benchmark Silver Plan: Average of $450-550/month before subsidies for a 40-year-old
- With Premium Tax Credits: Many Louisianians pay $50-150/month after subsidies
- Medicaid: Free or very low cost for eligible individuals
- Bronze Plans: Lower premiums, higher deductibles
- Gold Plans: Higher premiums, lower out-of-pocket costs
If your income is between 138% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Level, you likely qualify for premium subsidies. Enhanced subsidies are available through 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Healthy Louisiana?
Healthy Louisiana is Louisiana's Medicaid managed care program. Most Louisiana Medicaid recipients receive their coverage through Healthy Louisiana, which contracts with five managed care organizations to provide comprehensive health services including doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, and preventive services.
Has Louisiana expanded Medicaid?
Yes, Louisiana expanded Medicaid in 2016, becoming the first Deep South state to do so. Adults ages 19-64 earning up to 138% of the Federal Poverty Level can qualify for Louisiana Medicaid through the Healthy Louisiana program.
When is Open Enrollment for Louisiana health insurance?
Louisiana uses the federal HealthCare.gov marketplace. Open Enrollment for 2025 coverage runs from November 1, 2024 through January 15, 2025. Louisiana Medicaid enrollment is available year-round for eligible individuals.
How do I apply for Louisiana Medicaid?
You can apply online through Louisiana's CAFE portal at cafe.la.gov, by phone at 1-888-342-6207, or in person at your local Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) office. You can also apply through HealthCare.gov.
Need Help Finding Coverage in Louisiana?
Whether you qualify for Healthy Louisiana or need marketplace coverage, our licensed agents can help you find the right plan.
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