This article is part of a project of the local Community Health Improvement Council (CHIC). CHICs were created statewide in conjunction with the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) with the goal of getting local citizens and county governments more involved in the manner in which health might be improved in each of their communities. The local CHIC is conducting an on-going awareness campaign addressing all the areas that can potentially affect a person’s health. April has been designated by the CHIC as the month to bring awareness to the San Juan County Health Care Assistance Program.

 

SJC Health Care Assistance Program (HCAP) is the county-funded medical assistance program formerly known as the Indigent Health Care Program. The San Juan County Commission sets the rules and regulations that govern HCAP which is funded by dedicated gross receipts revenues generated in the county. Most of our clients are working individuals who have no health care insurance and need help to pay medical bills.

 

The mission of HCAP is to promote the health and well-being of residents of San Juan County through assistance programs which improve access to health care services in the community. The primary purpose of HCAP is to fund and provide assistance for health care services to residents of San Juan County who do not have health care coverage, whether it be a public or private health plan such as employer based health plans, Medicare, Medicaid, and the Marketplace also known as New Mexico Health Insurance Exchange.

 

What services are covered?  Eligible health care services include in-patient and out-patient hospital services, ambulance, home health & hospice, primary care, prescriptions, dental, mental health services, and drug/alcohol treatment.

 

How do I qualify for HCAP?  Income limits for the IHC program in San Juan County are among the highest in the state – limits are 200% of Federal Poverty Level (FPL).  There is also a residency requirement and asset limit.

 

How do I apply for the program?  Applications are available at all facility/provider sites, you can download from our website www.sjcounty.net, or you can get one from our office directly at 100 S. Oliver Drive, Aztec, NM.

 

With the implementation of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and the expansion of Medicaid, we require everyone to apply for all coverage options before HCAP can provide assistance.  When all possible coverage options are exhausted, HCAP may provide assistance and support for those who qualify.  HCAP staff can also help individuals navigate the enrollment process for Centennial Care www.yes.state.nm.us or help find an affordable plan on the Marketplace www.bewellnm.com.  Open enrollment for Marketplace is closed right now except for those who might qualify for special enrollment.   Please call or stop in for more information.

 

Contact Information:   IHC Program Office is located at 100 S. Oliver Drive in Aztec.  Liza Gomez Akley – 334-4288 Lgomez@sjcounty.net Office hours are Monday – Thursday 7:00 am to 5:30 pm