The County Indigent Health Care Program (CIHCP) stands as a vital state-mandated initiative designed to provide essential medical services to county residents. This program specifically caters to individuals who are in need of healthcare but do not qualify for other state or federal health care assistance programs. It serves as a crucial safety net, ensuring that those who fall through the cracks of larger healthcare systems can still access the medical attention they require.
Comprehensive Services Offered
The CIHCP offers a wide array of medical services to address various healthcare needs. These services are designed to be comprehensive, covering both preventative and reactive care. Below are some of the key services provided under the program:
- Physician’s Services: Access to general practitioners and specialists for regular check-ups, diagnosis, and treatment of illnesses.
- Mental Health Counseling: Crucial support for mental well-being through counseling services, addressing conditions like anxiety, depression, and stress.
- Lab & X-ray Services: Essential diagnostic services including laboratory tests and X-rays to aid in accurate medical assessments and treatment planning.
- Vision/Dental Care: Coverage for vision and dental health, recognizing their importance in overall well-being, including eye exams, glasses, and dental check-ups and treatments.
- Prescription Medication Assistance: Support for managing health conditions with coverage for up to 3 prescriptions per month, making necessary medications accessible.
- Diabetic Supplies: Specific supplies for managing diabetes, a common chronic condition, ensuring patients have access to necessary monitoring and management tools.
- Inpatient/Outpatient Hospital Services: Coverage for both inpatient and outpatient hospital care, addressing emergencies, surgeries, and ongoing treatments.
- Physical and Occupational Therapy: Rehabilitative services to help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, or illnesses, improving mobility and daily functioning.
- Local Medical Specialist Access: Referrals and access to medical specialists within the local area, ensuring patients can see experts for specific health concerns.
- Healthcare Transportation: Assistance with transportation to healthcare facilities and providers, removing a significant barrier for those with limited mobility or resources.
Application Process and Eligibility
To access the benefits of the CIHCP, individuals need to apply and meet certain eligibility criteria. The application process is designed to be thorough yet accessible to those in need.
How to Apply
To initiate your application for the Indigent Health Care program, you can utilize the provided application form: Indigent Health Care Application. While the application can be completed online for convenience, it’s important to note that the completed application must be submitted either by mail or in person to one of the designated Jefferson County Public Health Offices.
Key Eligibility Requirements
The eligibility for the CIHCP is based on several factors to ensure that the program effectively serves its intended population. These criteria include:
- Residency: Applicants must be residents of the county in which they are applying and demonstrate an intention to remain within that county. This ensures that the program serves the local community.
- Household Definition: The program defines a household as an individual living alone or multiple individuals living together with legal support responsibilities. Importantly, individuals who are already receiving or are categorically eligible for Medicaid are considered disqualified and are not eligible for CIHCP.
- Resource Limits: To qualify, a household’s total countable resources must not exceed specific limits. The limit is $3,000.00 for households that include a person who is aged or disabled and meets certain relationship requirements. For all other households, the resource limit is $2,000.00.
- Income Restrictions: Monthly net income (gross income minus allowable deductions) is a critical factor. A household is eligible if its net income does not exceed 21% of the Federal Poverty Guideline (FPG). This income threshold ensures that the program is targeted towards those with the most significant financial need.
For those who prefer a paper application or need to submit their completed application, you can visit or mail to one of the Jefferson County Public Health Department offices listed below. Upon receiving your application at the local Jefferson County Public Health Office, you will be contacted by mail to schedule an appointment with a County caseworker.
Contact Information for Application Submission:
Jefferson County Public Health Dept. (Unit 1)
1295 Pearl Street
Beaumont, TX 77701
(409) 835-8530
Jefferson County Public Health Dept. (Unit 2)
800 4th Street
Port Arthur, TX 77640
(409) 983-8380
