Receiving Benefits

There is no charge for Medicaid benefits in Hawaii.  You can find out if you qualify by filling out an application.  After you submit your application, the Department of Human Services, Med-QUEST Division (MQD) will determine your eligibility for coverage.  Sometimes, MQD requires additional information and verification.  If that is the case, MQD will send you a letter telling you what is required.

MQD will determine your eligibility within 45 calendar days.  If you are claiming eligibility based on a permanent disability, MQD has 90 calendar days to make a determination.  You will receive a letter indicating whether you qualify for medical assistance.  If eligible, you will be enrolled in a health plan.  You can change your health plan and your plan change will usually be effective the first day of the next month.

If you disagree with either MQD’s eligibility determination, you can request a meeting with someone to learn more about how the determination was made. If you want to appeal the determination, you have 90 days to file a request for an appeal.

If you are not eligible for free medical coverage, MQD will send your application information to the federal insurance marketplace, which is also called HealthCare.gov.  That is where people can shop and compare private health plans.  You will be notified by them by mail on how to apply, complete your application through HealthCare.gov and enroll in a health plan.  Through HealthCare.gov you may also qualify for tax credits or subsidies to make coverage more affordable.