What is the Kaiser MFA Program?
The Kaiser Permanente Medical Financial Assistance (MFA) Program provides temporary financial aid to individuals who need help covering medical expenses. It is designed for both Kaiser members and non-members seeking assistance with emergency or medically necessary health services. If eligible, patients may receive awards to offset their healthcare costs for a specific timeframe.
Who is eligible for the MFA Program?
To qualify, your gross household income must be at or below 350% of the federal poverty level, or your out-of-pocket health care costs over the past 12 months must equal or exceed 10% of your gross income. Out-of-pocket costs include copays, deductibles, and coinsurance but do not include monthly premiums for insurance. Specific income thresholds based on household size may apply.
How can I apply for the MFA Program?
You can apply in several ways. You can fill out the application form on the provided page and mail it to Kaiser Permanente MFA Program at PO Box 30006, Walnut Creek, CA 94598. Alternatively, you can fax it to 1-800-687-9901 or drop it off at any Kaiser Permanente Patient Financial Operations office. It’s important to include all necessary information to avoid delays in processing your application.
What information is needed to complete the application?
When applying, you will need to supply your personal details, including your name, medical record number, date of birth, and contact information. You'll also need to provide information about your household size and income, as well as the total out-of-pocket healthcare costs you've incurred over the last year.
What happens after I submit my application?
Once your completed application is submitted, Kaiser Permanente reviews it. You will receive notification regarding one of three potential outcomes: your application may be approved, further information may be needed, or it may be denied. If denied, you will receive the reasons for the denial, and you can pursue an appeal if desired.
Are there any requirements if I don't have health insurance?
If you are uninsured, there might be a requirement to apply for other health coverage programs, such as Medi-Cal or subsidized insurance plans from health insurance marketplaces. This step aims to provide you with long-term coverage solutions. You may still receive help from the MFA Program while waiting for decisions from these other programs.
How can I get assistance while filling out my application?
If you have any questions or need help with the application process, you can call Kaiser Permanente at 1-800-390-3507, available Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. PST. You can also seek assistance from a financial counselor at any Kaiser Permanente location.
Where can I find additional information about the MFA Program?
For more detailed information regarding the MFA Program, its eligibility criteria, and covered services, you can visit the Kaiser Permanente website at www.kp.org/mfa/ncal. Additionally, guidelines for federal poverty levels can be found at aspe.hhs.gov/poverty.