Medical Assistance Programs in Virginia

Medical Assistance programs in Virginia for children, families, seniors, and disabled persons

With recent ideological debate and partisan politics surrounding the reauthorization of the State Children's Health Insurance Program (SCHIP), you may be understandably confused as to how the government medical assistance programs work and who may be eligible.

Family Access to Medical Insurance Security (FAMIS)

FAMIS:

FAMIS is a joint state-federal assistance program which provides low-cost health insurance for children in families whose income is 133% to 200% Federal Poverty Level (FPL). To be eligible, the child (under age 19) must not currently have or have had health insurance in the past four months (some exceptions apply) and cannot be eligible for a state employee's health insurance plan. No resource (asset) evaluation is required. In 2007, the applicable income range is $18,308-$27,308 for family of 2, $22,837-$34,340 for family of 3, $27,465-$41,300 for family of 4, $32,093-$48,260 for family of 5, $36,722-$55,220 for family of 6.

FAMIS Plus:

FAMIS Plus is the Medicaid program for children in Virginia whose family income is at or below 133% FPL. No resource (asset) evaluation is required. In 2007, family income must be less than $18,308 for family of 2, $22,837 for family of 3, $27,465 for family of 4, $32,093 for family of 5, $36,722 for family of 6.

FAMIS Select:

FAMIS Select is a unique program which helps families pay for private or employer-sponsored health coverage. To be eligible, the family must have at least one child enrolled in a FAMIS program. Families are able to choose between FAMIS or FAMIS Select benefits. The eligible family will receive up to $100 per enrolled child to help pay for family health insurance coverage, although a minimum employer-sponsored premium contribution is required. The premium contribution amount received from FAMIS Select cannot exceed the family's share of health insurance premiums. No resource evaluation is required.

FAMIS MOMS: