What Is Wyoming Medicaid?
Wyoming Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that provides free or low-cost health coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families[8][105]. It is designed for people who may not have access to affordable private health insurance and covers a wide range of medical services, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, mental health services, and long-term care for those who qualify.
The Wyoming Department of Health administers the program, but it operates under federal Medicaid guidelines. This means eligibility, benefits, and rules are set at both the federal and state level, with Wyoming making some specific policy choices for its residents.
Who Is Eligible for Wyoming Medicaid?
Wyoming Medicaid serves several groups of residents, but not everyone who meets the income criteria will qualify. The main eligibility categories are:
- Children: Medicaid covers children from low-income families, with higher income thresholds for younger children. All children up to age 6 are eligible if their family income is at or below 159% of the federal poverty level (FPL). Children ages 6–18 qualify up to 138% FPL. Separate CHIP (Children’s Health Insurance Program) coverage is available for families with income up to 205% FPL.
- Pregnant Women: Pregnant women with household income up to 159% FPL can receive Medicaid coverage during their pregnancy and for up to 12 months postpartum.
- Parents with Dependent Children: Parents or caretakers with dependent children are eligible if their household income is at or below about 43% FPL.
- Aged, Blind, and Disabled: Seniors (age 65+), people who are blind, and those with disabilities may qualify for Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) Medicaid, which has separate income and asset limits. For ABD Medicaid, the monthly income limit for a single person in 2025 is $967, and the asset limit is $2,000.
- Nursing Home Care: For those needing nursing home-level care, Wyoming offers institutional Medicaid, which has higher income limits ($2,901/month for a single applicant in 2025) but strict asset limits ($2,000 for a single applicant).
- Home and Community-Based Services: Waiver programs help elderly or disabled individuals receive care at home or in the community instead of a nursing home. These programs have their own eligibility requirements and may have waiting lists.
Important: Wyoming has not expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which means adults under 65 who do not have minor children generally do not qualify for Medicaid, no matter how low their income is[108].
How to Determine if You Qualify
Because eligibility rules can be complex, the best way to determine if you qualify is to use the Wyoming Medicaid Eligibility Test or contact the Wyoming Medicaid customer service center for guidance. You can also apply online through the Wyoming Medicaid/CHIP web portal or by calling the Customer Service Center at 1-855-294-2127.
When applying, you’ll need to provide information about your household income, assets (for certain programs), age, disability status, and other relevant factors. The application process may vary depending on the specific Medicaid program you’re applying for.
What Does Wyoming Medicaid Cover?
Wyoming Medicaid covers a broad range of health services, including:
- Doctor and hospital visits
- Prescription drugs
- Laboratory and X-ray services
- Mental health and substance use disorder services
- Nursing home care (for those who qualify)
- Home and community-based services (for eligible seniors and people with disabilities)
- Preventive care, including immunizations and checkups for children
- Family planning services
Some services may have limits or require prior authorization. If you have questions about what is covered, you can review the provider manuals available from Wyoming Medicaid or contact the customer service center.
How to Apply for Wyoming Medicaid
You can apply for Wyoming Medicaid online, by mail, or by phone. The process typically involves submitting an application form, providing documentation of your income and assets (if required), and completing an interview if requested.
Online: Visit the Wyoming Medicaid/CHIP web portal.
By Phone: Call the Customer Service Center at 1-855-294-2127.
By Mail: Complete the Application for Health Coverage & Help Paying Costs and mail it to the address provided on the form.
If you need help filling out the application or understanding the eligibility rules, you can contact the Aging and Disability Resource Center or a local community organization for assistance.
Summary
Wyoming Medicaid is a vital program for low-income individuals and families who need access to health care. Eligibility depends on your income, age, disability status, and family situation. While the program does not cover all adults due to the state’s decision not to expand Medicaid, it provides essential coverage for children, pregnant women, parents, seniors, and people with disabilities. If you think you may qualify, it’s worth taking the time to apply, as having health insurance can make a significant difference in your well-being and financial security.