Pennsylvania Medical Assistance
Pennsylvania Medical Assistance (MA), also known as Medicaid, provides comprehensive health coverage to eligible residents with limited income and resources.
MA offers a broad range of physical and behavioral health services:
- Standard Medical Care
Doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency room (ER) care, and prescription drugs. - Specialized Services:
Dental and vision care (varies for adults), mental health treatment, and substance use disorder services. - Long-Term Support
Nursing home care and home-based services for those with physical or intellectual disabilities.
Unlike private health insurance, there are no monthly premiums, though small copayments may apply for certain services , such as prescription drugs or specific doctor visits.
FAQ
What is the income limit for Medicaid in PA?
Pennsylvania opted to implement the Medicaid expansion in 2014. As a result, Medicaid now covers nearly all uninsured adults age 19—64, including children age between 6—18, with income up to 138% of the poverty level. Pregnant women and newborns are covered up to 220% of the poverty level.
| pennsylvania MedicaidHousehold Size | 162% Child 1-5 | 220% Pregnant Women | 138% Adults 19—64 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $2,155 | $2,926 | $1,835 |
| 2 | $2,921 | $3,967 | $2,489 |
| 3 | $3,688 | $5,009 | $3,142 |
| 4 | $4,455 | $6,050 | $3,795 |
| 5 | $5,222 | $7,091 | $4,448 |
| 6 | $5,989 | $8,133 | $5,101 |
| 7 | $6,755 | $9,174 | $5,755 |
| 8 | $7,522 | $10,215 | $6,408 |
Special categories like Medical Assistance for Workers with Disabilities (MAWD) allow individuals with disabilities to work while keeping benefits with a small premium.
How do I apply for Medicaid in Pennsylvania?
You can apply for or renew your Medical Assistance online by using COMPASS or apply by telephone by calling the Consumer Service Center at (800) 692-7462.
If you are over 19 and don’t qualify for Medicaid, you may find coverage through Pennie , Pennsylvania’s official insurance marketplace.
Pennsylvania Department of Human Services
COMPASS Customer Service / Medicaid Assistance
(800) 692-7462
About this information
SingleMotherGuide.com is an independent website and is not affiliated with any government agency. Program amounts and income limits are compiled from official federal and state sources, which are cited on the page, and are reviewed periodically and updated as those sources change.
The information is provided for general guidance and is not legal or financial advice. The administering agency makes the final determination of eligibility and benefit amounts. To report an error, please contact us.
Data freshness
Figures on this page are compiled from the public sources cited above and may change; refer to the cited sources for the most current information.
- Last updated
- Updated by
- Ada Hu