To apply for help with Medicare costs, individuals should contact their State Medical Assistance (Medicaid) office. It’s important to apply even if the individual’s income or resources are slightly higher than the listed amounts, as some states have more generous eligibility criteria or do not count certain types of income or resources.

In Arizona, residents can access various health plans, including the AHCCCS Complete Care Health Plan, Mercy Care, and Care 1st.

AHCCCS Complete Care Health Plan

The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) Complete Care Health Plan is an integrated health plan for most AHCCCS members. This plan includes physical and behavioral healthcare service providers, aiming to provide comprehensive managed care for the whole person. The benefits of this integration include a single plan, payer, and provider network, making it easier for members to navigate.

Mercy Care

Mercy Care is a not-for-profit health plan serving AHCCCS members throughout Arizona. It provides coverage for people who qualify for AHCCCS and offers services and support through five Medicaid or Medicaid/Medicare plans. These plans include coverage for general mental health and substance use concerns, long-term care and services for developmental or cognitive disabilities, and physical and behavioral health care coverage for children and youth in foster care.

Care 1st

Care 1st Health Plan Arizona is part of the Arizona Complete Health family of health plans. It serves families in Apache, Coconino, Mohave, Navajo, and Yavapai Counties. Care 1st is one of two Medicaid plans under the Arizona Complete Health family, with Care 1st serving northern Arizona and Arizona Complete Health-Complete Care plan serving central and southern Arizona.

Enrollment in Health Plans

AHCCCS members may enroll in any health plan that serves their county. This allows members to choose a plan that best fits their needs and ensures access to healthcare services within their local area.

Arizona’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) is a free health benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries. Its mission is to empower, educate, and assist Medicare-eligible individuals, their families, and caregivers through objective outreach, counseling, and training to help individuals make informed health insurance decisions that optimize access to care. SHIP provides unbiased help to Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers, offering information on Medicare, AHCCCS, Medigap, Medicare Fraud, Error and Abuse, and Part D-Prescription Drug Plan.