State Medicaid agencies provide information vital to the health of certain businesses. Since Medicaid provides health care coverage to more than 59 million people, any company working as an independent contractor for Medicaid agencies needs to stay abreast of changes, codes and requirements.

Since Medicaid agencies receive both state and federal dollars, guidelines for business owners involve a great deal of paperwork. Medicaid agencies provide direct access to low income adults needing health care. They also provide long term care coverage and resources for seniors and persons with disabilities. State Medicaid programs use business owners for contract work for Medicaid approved services.

Medicaid agencies keep both kids healthy as well through CHIP, the Children’s Health Initiative Program. Local Medicaid programs give children from low income families wellness and sick benefits as well as eligibility for nutrition services through local schools. Business owners use state Medicaid agencies to:

1. Find contracts for state Medicaid services for Medicaid approved patients.

2. Get certified as a Medicaid approved service provider.

3. Develop programs and services for Medicaid patients needing local Medicaid services.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Use Medicaid agencies to find potential business contracts in the Medicaid field

During tough economic times, business owners face the challenge of finding ongoing contracts. Medicaid agencies help bridge the gap between qualified employees looking for jobs in their field and employers needing to fill crucial positions.

I recommend: Medicaid's state by state descriptions and plans gives contact information for each state's Medicaid programs and agencies. Also try the National Association of State Medicaid Directors for links to your state.

Keep up with requirements for licensing through state Medicaid agencies

Medicaid requirements keep business owners on their toes when it comes to keeping Medicaid certification. Checking updates regularly means getting the most from your relationship with Medicaid for your business and your customers.

I recommend: Visit Families USA, a health advocacy organization, or CMS, the Center for Medicaid Services, for up to date information on changes to programs and requirements.

Get information about Medicaid approved services for children from local Medicaid agencies

Proving Medicaid services for children is a unique niche and one with lots of rewards. After school care programs, nutrition services for low income families and help with educational issues all mean improved services for kids and an ongoing relationship with local Medicaid agencies.

I recommend: Visit Medicaid's Children's Health home page or HHS.gov Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for information of the types of children's services approved for Medicaid.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you're not sure which state Medicaid agency you need for answers to your business questions, ask for more information. State Medicaid agencies refer business owners' questions to the appropriate department.