Several public health care programs are available through Hennepin County.

Medical Assistance (MA)

MA is a federal assistance program that helps pay for the medical care of people who meet specific income, asset and property guidelines. MA may cover people in one or more of the following categories.

  • Under 21 year of age or age 65 years or older
  • Disabled
  • Blind
  • Pregnant
  • Parents or caregivers of a child under 19 years old (in certain circumstances)
  • Adults 21-64 years of age without children, not Medicare eligible

MN Department of Human Services - Information about Medical Assistance expansion

MinnesotaCare

MinnesotaCare is a state-subsidized, low-cost insurance program that helps pay for basic medical, dental, and preventative care.  It is for uninsured residents of Minnesota who meet specific income, assets, and property guidelines.  In most cases, you will pay a monthly premium.  MinnesotaCare does not cover nursing home care.

Emergency Medical Assistance 

Emergency Medical Assistance (EMA) helps people in medical emergencies who otherwise are not eligible for medical coverage programs due to immigration or state residency status.

Managed Health Care Options

If you qualify for one of these health care programs, it will help pay the monthly premiums for a health maintenance organization (HMO) that you have chosen to receive your heath services.

Minnesota Non-emergency Transportation (MNET) 

MNET provides transportation to medical appointments for people on MA, and some pregnant women and children on MinnesotaCare who have no other transportation available to them.  

How to Apply

Contact

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Are there any medical services for people who are homeless?

A:  Yes, all shelters offer free medical services for people who are homeless.  For more information see Healthcare for the Homeless. 

Q:  As an immigrant, if I don't qualify for any of these, how can I afford to pay for medical care?

A:  Look into Assured Access.

Q:  If I am eligible for a health care program, what other benefits might help me?

A:  If you are eligible for a health care program, you may also be eligible for  Cash Assistance and Food Support.  If you are enrolled or eligible to enroll in Medicare, you may be eligible to have your Medicare premium paid.

Q:  Where can I learn more about applying for health care?

A:  See State of Minnesota Department of Human Services DHS Applications for Health Care Programs.

Q:  What if I disagree with a decision that is made about my case?

A: A Hennepin County Human Services Representative can help you appeal.