What Is MassHealth?

MassHealth is a public health insurance program for eligible low and medium-income residents of Massachusetts. MassHealth is the name used in Massachusetts for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP), combined in one program.

Am I Eligible?

To be eligible for MassHealth, you must be a low to medium-income resident of Massachusetts and meet general and financial eligibility requirements.

Eligibility Check

The MassHealth Eligibility Check is an easy way for you to find out if you are likely to qualify for MassHealth benefits, by answering questions online about your family, your living situation, your job status, and your income. You will see the results of the eligibility check right away, on your computer screen.

What Benefits Will I Get?

MassHealth pays for all or some of a member’s health insurance and health care services. Services and costs vary depending on your type of coverage.

Dental Program

The MassHealth Dental Program provides dental benefits for MassHealth members. Dental benefits  include checkups, cleanings, fillings, extractions, braces, dentures, and other necessary dental services. Most adults only get preventive and emergency dental services.

Mental Health Services

MassHealth behavioral health services include assessments and treatments for a wide range of mental and emotional disorders as well as substance abuse treatment services. The Children's Behavioral Health Initiative provides additional services for children and youth under 21.

Home Health Services

MassHealth pays home health agencies to provide nursing care; home health aide care; and occupational, physical, and speech/language therapy to eligible MassHealth members. Home health care services must be medically necessary and part of a doctor’s plan of care.

Personal Care Attendant Program

The Personal Care Attendant Program (PCA) helps people with long-term disabilities live independently at home. MassHealth provides funds so that eligible Standard and CommonHealth members can hire personal care attendants to assist them with activities of daily living.

Transportation Services

MassHealth members who need non-emergency transportation to and from medical appointments may be eligible for free transportation services.

How Do I Apply?

To apply for MassHealth, you should call the MassHealth Enrollment Center at 1-888-665-9993 (TTY: 1-888-665-9997) to request an application. You can also download an application from MassHealth Applications and Member Forms on the MassHealth web site, or visit a community health center.

How Do I Enroll?

Once you have been approved for MassHealth, you will receive an enrollment package explaining how to choose a health plan and a primary care doctor. You will also receive your MassHealth card which you must show whenever you need medical care.

Managed Care Health Plans

MassHealth members who want to enroll in an MCO managed care health plan can choose from five plans: BMC HealthNet, Fallon Community Health Plan, Health New England, Neighborhood Health Plan, and Network Health. All of the MCOs offer all MassHealth benefits, plus extras.

How Do I Use My Benefits?

You can call MassHealth Customer Service at 1-800-841-2900 (TTY: 1-800-497-4648) to find a doctor, dentist, or other health care provider in your area. Most MassHealth MCOs have online provider search tools.

Coverage Types

MassHealth includes several coverage types with different rules for each coverage. The coverage type for which an individual or family is eligible is based on income, family situation, health status, and other factors.

Useful Links

Links to other web sites with related information about MassHealth.