Related to Pregnant Women and Infants in Georgia

What do the changes mean?

The new Medicaid changes, effective July 1, 2004, reduce the Medicaid eligibility income limit for pregnant women and their infants from 235% Federal Poverty level (FPL) to 200% FPL. 

• For pregnant women who were already receiving Medicaid - the change means that some of Georgia’s pregnant women may no longer remain eligible for Medicaid funded healthcare services.  Their eligibility was reviewed under the new guidelines.  A small portion will no longer be eligible for Right from the Start Medicaid, but may have access to other resources.
   
• For pregnant women who apply on or after July 1, 2004 – the change means that these women will have their eligibility established at the 200% FPL.

What if circumstances change for a woman who has lost benefits?

Whenever income or circumstances change in a woman’s life, she should contact her DFCS caseworker or DFCS Change Center (888-295-1769 or 404-635-2173).

What are alternative resource options?

If the pregnant woman’s income is above 200% FPL, some of the other programs that may be available to her and/or her infant(s) include:

• Medically Needy Medicaid (Spenddown)
• Babes Born Healthy
• Regional Tertiary Centers for high-risk pregnancies

Collaborations with state and local partners are being explored to identify and provide more resources for assisting with prenatal care and delivery costs.  You may contact your local health department to learn what else may be available in your area.  Please see the attached chart  “Resources to Support Pregnant Women and Infants and in Georgia” for current resource opportunities.