Sheds light on BadgerCare

Dear Editor,

Recent reports across the state about a waiting list for Wisconsin’s BadgerCare Plus program for adults without dependent children have caused much confusion. BadgerCare Plus, Wisconsin's public health insurance program, is actually a combination of many programs. One is for children and families. Another is the new program for “childless adults.” Only the childless adult program – called BadgerCare Plus “Core” – has a waiting list. All other BadgerCare Plus programs are still enrolling people, including the one for children and their caretakers.

The Core program began to enroll childless adults this past summer. As part of a special waiver from the Federal Government, Wisconsin had to set a limit on the number of people who can actually receive health benefits through Core at any one time. Because the program had been so popular in its first few months, this limit was quickly reached. The state is putting applications received after Oct. 9 on a waiting list.

This change in the Core program has led many to believe that all BadgerCare Plus programs have been put on hold. To be clear: the program for children and parents or other caretakers is alive and well, taking new applications and enrolling uninsured Wisconsinites every day.

All Wisconsinites who are uninsured or do not have access to affordable coverage should apply for BadgerCare Plus. It is easy to see if you or your family members may be eligible by going to www.access.wisconsin.gov.

Parents with children can begin to receive health care almost immediately. Those without dependent children can at least get on the waiting list.

Michael Jacob, BadgerCare Project Coordinator

Madison

Tags: opinion, letters, wisconsin, badgercare