Louisiana Medicaid Guide: Eligibility & How to Apply
Helping Louisiana families understand Medicaid eligibility, income limits, and step-by-step application guidance so you can access the care you need.
👉 Louisiana Medicaid provides health coverage to eligible low-income children, parents, pregnant people, seniors, and adults at little or no cost. Many Louisiana families qualify but do not realize it, or are unsure how to apply.
If your family is eligible for Medicaid, Nest Health offers in-home and virtual care that works with select plans like AmeriHealth Caritas of Louisiana and Aetna Better Health of Louisiana. Call us at 📞 866-222-NEST (6378) for help navigating your potential care options.
What Is Louisiana Medicaid?
Louisiana Medicaid is a government health insurance program that helps pay for doctor visits, hospital care, vaccines, prescriptions, mental health services, and more for qualifying residents. Medicaid eligibility is based on income, household size, and sometimes special life situations like pregnancy or disability.
Families can use Louisiana Medicaid to access care with providers like Nest Health, including:
✨ Family medicine
✨ In-home and virtual visits
✨ Services in New Orleans and Baton Rouge for eligible families
📍 Learn more about care in your area:
Who Qualifies for Louisiana Medicaid?
You may qualify if you meet eligibility based on these criteria:
✅ Income level compared to federal poverty guidelines
✅ Household size (family members living with you)
✅ Children, parents or caretakers, pregnant people, adults under 65, seniors, and people with disabilities
✅ Special circumstances like pregnancy or chronic health conditions
Medicaid is different from Medicare, which is primarily for adults ages 65 and older.
💰 Louisiana Medicaid Income Limits
Below are general Louisiana Medicaid income guidelines based on household size and federal poverty levels. Most programs use Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI).
| Household Size | Monthly Limit | Annual Limit | % of Federal Poverty Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ~$1,730 | ~$20,780 | 138% |
| 2 | ~$2,340 | ~$28,080 | 138% |
| 3 | ~$2,950 | ~$35,400 | 138% |
| 4 | ~$3,560 | ~$42,720 | 138% |
| 5 | ~$4,170 | ~$50,040 | 138% |
| 6 | ~$4,780 | ~$57,360 | 138% |
| 7 | ~$5,390 | ~$64,680 | 138% |
| 8 | ~$6,000 | ~$72,000 | 138% |
👉 Children and pregnant people often qualify at higher income levels.
📌 Some programs for seniors and people with disabilities include asset limits too.
How to Apply for Medicaid in Louisiana
Applying is easier when you know what to expect. Below is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Have these ready before you start your application:
Photo ID (driver’s license, birth certificate, passport)
Social Security numbers for applicants
Proof of income (pay stubs, tax return, benefits statements)
Proof of residency (lease, utility bill)
Other insurance information (if any)
Step 2: Choose Your Application Method
Louisiana offers several ways to apply:
1. Online Application
Apply at the Healthy Louisiana portal
Create or log into your account
Upload documents directly
Check status online
Online submissions are typically processed fastest.
2. ☎️ By Phone
Call Louisiana Medicaid at 📞 1-888-342-6207
Representatives help Monday-Friday
Interpreter services available
3. 📍 In-Person
Visit your local Louisiana Department of Health office
Bring all required documents
Staff can help complete your form
4. 📬 Mail or Fax
Download the application form
Complete it and attach documents
Mail or fax according to the instructions on the form
Processing times: Most applications are reviewed in 30-45 days.
After You Apply
Application Review
Louisiana Medicaid reviews your information
You might be asked for extra documents
Pregnant people and children may get faster reviews
Check Your Status
Online via the Healthy Louisiana portal
Call Louisiana Medicaid
Watch for mail or email notices
✔️ If You Are Approved
You will receive:
Approval letter
Louisiana Medicaid ID card
Instructions to select a managed care plan
Information about covered services
Once approved, you can use your Medicaid plan with providers, including Nest Health.
❌ If You Are Denied
Your denial notice will include:
Why you were denied
How to request an appeal (often within 90 days)
What steps to take next
You can:
Appeal with supporting documents
Reapply if your situation changes
Explore Marketplace plans or LaCHIP for children
🔄 Renewing Louisiana Medicaid
Louisiana Medicaid must be renewed every year to keep coverage. You will get a renewal notice. Respond quickly to avoid gaps.
👉 Read How to Renew Medicaid in Louisiana
❓ Louisiana Medicaid FAQs
What benefits does Medicaid cover?
Doctor visits, hospital care, prescriptions, mental health services, preventive care, and more.
Can I have Medicaid and a Marketplace plan?
Usually, you choose one type of coverage.
What is CHIP?
LaCHIP is the Children’s Health Insurance Program for kids in families who make too much for Medicaid.
How do I find a Medicaid provider?
Search your managed care plan directory or ask your plan directly. Eligible families can also explore care with Nest Health if they are covered by a participating health plan like AmeriHealth Caritas of Louisiana or Aetna Better Health of Louisiana.
What if my income is too high?
You may qualify for LaCHIP or subsidized health plans through the Marketplace.
Does Medicaid cover dental and vision?
Yes, coverage is available, especially for children.
Can I apply for my whole family at once?
Yes. Family members can be included on one application.
What if I move within Louisiana or to another state?
Report your address change. Moving out of state requires a new application.
📍 Helpful Links
Need Help?
If you are contacted by Nest or your health plan, or think your family may be eligible, call us today at 📞 866-222-NEST (6378) to learn about Medicaid-covered care options with Nest Health.
