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The DHCS 9061 form serves as a crucial document in California's Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program, overseen by the Department of Health Care Services. This program offers financial assistance to eligible individuals who have lost their jobs and qualify for Medi-Cal benefits. Specifically designed to ease the burden of healthcare costs, the HIPP program reimburses participants for their private insurance premiums and related cost-sharing expenses. In order to benefit from this program, individuals must satisfy several key criteria, including having full-scope Medi-Cal coverage and an existing private insurance policy at the time of application. Additionally, they must have a medical condition that their existing coverage addresses and must have sought treatment for that condition within the last 90 days. Cost-effectiveness is a significant factor; the combined premium and cost-sharing costs of a participant's private insurance must be lower than what Medi-Cal would incur for similar care. Furthermore, those interested must have applied for Medicare, while certain disqualifying factors also exist. These factors include enrollment in Medicare or a Medi-Cal managed care plan, court orders for medical insurance, and full reimbursement from a third party for premiums. The form guides potential applicants through the eligibility requirements and the application process, making it accessible for individuals looking to navigate the complex healthcare landscape. For those with an HIV/AIDS diagnosis, a specialized version of the HIPP program, known as the Office of AIDS HIPP (OA-HIPP), provides additional support in the form of premium assistance aimed at ensuring that those affected can maintain access to necessary health coverage.

Form Sample

State of California—Health and Human Services Agency

Department of Health Care Services

WILL LIGHTBOURNE

GAVIN NEWSOM

DIRECTOR

GOVERNOR

NOTICE TO TERMINATING EMPLOYEES

Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program

The California Department of Health Care Services administers the HIPP program, which is an optional premium reimbursement program under Medi-Cal. If you have recently lost your job and qualify for Medi-Cal benefits, or you are the parent or guardian of someone who qualifies for Medi-Cal benefits, you may be eligible to receive payment for your existing private insurance premium and cost-sharing. In order to qualify for the HIPP program, you must meet all of the following conditions:

1.You must have full scope Medi-Cal coverage;

2.You must have an existing private insurance policy (also referred to as “other health coverage”), a COBRA or CAL-COBRA continuation policy, or a COBRA Conversion policy at the time of application for Medi-Cal benefits;

3.You must have a medical condition covered under your existing other health coverage, and you must have received treatment for the medical condition within 90 days of application to the HIPP program;

4.Your other health coverage must be cost-effective to Medi-Cal. This means that the sum of your premium and cost-sharing obligations must be less expensive than the cost that Medi-Cal would pay for your care;

5.You have applied for Medicare benefits.

In addition, you do not qualify to participate in the HIPP program if any of the following apply:

1.You are not enrolled in Medi-Cal.

2.You do not have full scope Medi-Cal coverage.

3.You are enrolled in Medicare.

4.You are enrolled in a Medi-Cal managed care plan, or have the option to enroll in a Medi-Cal managed care plan.

DHCS 9061 (Rev 06/20)

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5.A court has ordered a non-custodial parent to provide medical insurance to you or your child (if your child is the HIPP applicant).

6.You, or a policyholder under which you are insured as a dependent, is fully reimbursed for your premiums and/or cost-sharing obligations by a third party.

7.Your other health coverage is not cost-effective to Medi-Cal.

8.You do not meet all of the eligibility requirements of the HIPP program.

If you meet all the conditions listed above, you may apply online at http://dhcs.ca.gov/hipp.

If you have questions about how to apply for Medi-Cal benefits, you may contact your local Medi-Cal county office directly at http://www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/medi-cal/Pages/CountyOffices.aspx.

If you have questions about Medi-Cal managed care plans, you may contact the Medi- Cal Managed Care Ombudsman at (888) 452-8609 or by email at [email protected].

For Persons Who Have an HIV/AIDS Disability

The Department of Public Health administers the Office of AIDS HIPP (OA-HIPP) Program. The OA-HIPP program pays monthly health insurance premiums for eligible California residents with an HIV/AIDS diagnosis. This program is available to individuals with health insurance who are at risk of losing it, as well as to individuals currently without health insurance who would like to purchase it. For information, please call (800) 367-2437.

DHCS 9061 (Rev 06/20)

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Document Specifications

Fact Name Details
Program Purpose The DHCS 9061 form is used for the California Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program, which offers reimbursement for private insurance premiums to eligible Medi-Cal beneficiaries.
Eligibility Requirements To qualify, applicants must have full scope Medi-Cal coverage, a private insurance policy, a medical condition covered by their insurance, and must have applied for Medicare.
Exclusions Individuals cannot participate in the HIPP program if enrolled in Medicare, a Medi-Cal managed care plan, or if they received full reimbursement from another party.
Application Process Eligible individuals can apply online through the DHCS website. For assistance, they can contact local Medi-Cal county offices or the Medi-Cal Managed Care Ombudsman.
Applicable Law The HIPP program is governed by California welfare laws that administer Medi-Cal services and support for eligible residents.

Steps to Filling Out Dhcs 9061

After gathering the necessary information and confirming eligibility for the Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) program, the next step involves filling out the DHCS 9061 form correctly. Follow the steps below to ensure all required sections are completed accurately.

  1. Obtain a copy of the DHCS 9061 form. You can find it on the California Department of Health Care Services website.
  2. Read the form thoroughly to understand each section.
  3. Start with **Section A**: Provide your personal information, including your name, address, phone number, and email address if applicable.
  4. In **Section B**, indicate your Medi-Cal number and the date you lost your job.
  5. Proceed to **Section C** and fill out your private insurance details, including the type of policy and information about your coverage.
  6. In **Section D**, confirm your medical condition covered by the insurance. Include dates of treatment within the last 90 days.
  7. Complete **Section E** by providing information regarding your premium and cost-sharing obligations.
  8. Review all entries for accuracy and completeness. Make sure there are no missing fields.
  9. Sign and date the form where indicated.
  10. Submit the completed form as per the provided instructions, ensuring to keep a copy for your records.

More About Dhcs 9061

What is the DHCS 9061 form?

The DHCS 9061 form is a document related to the Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program in California. This program helps eligible individuals cover the costs of their private health insurance premiums if they are also receiving Medi-Cal benefits. The form serves as an application to participate in the HIPP program, ensuring that individuals can receive reimbursement for their health insurance costs.

Who is eligible to apply for the HIPP program?

To be eligible for the HIPP program, individuals must meet several criteria: they must have full scope Medi-Cal coverage, hold an existing private insurance policy, and have a medical condition covered by that policy. Additionally, they must have received treatment for that condition within the last 90 days. The combined premium and cost-sharing obligations of their private insurance must also be less than what Medi-Cal would pay for similar care. Lastly, applicants must have applied for Medicare benefits.

What are the ineligibility criteria for the HIPP program?

Certain situations disqualify an individual from participating in the HIPP program. These include not being enrolled in Medi-Cal, not having full scope Medi-Cal coverage, or being enrolled in Medicare. Additionally, individuals enrolled in a Medi-Cal managed care plan or those whose premiums are fully reimbursed by a third party are also ineligible. There are other specific conditions that could affect eligibility, such as being subject to a court order requiring a non-custodial parent to provide medical insurance.

How can one apply for the HIPP program?

Eligible individuals can apply for the HIPP program online through the California Department of Health Care Services website. The specific link to the application is http://dhcs.ca.gov/hipp. This process makes it easier for individuals to submit their applications from the comfort of their own homes.

What should one do if they have questions about Medi-Cal benefits?

If you have questions regarding how to apply for Medi-Cal benefits or other related inquiries, it is best to contact your local Medi-Cal county office directly. You can find the contact information and specific county offices at http://www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/medi-cal/Pages/CountyOffices.aspx. This will provide the most accurate and relevant information for your individual situation.

Is there a program for individuals with HIV/AIDS under the HIPP framework?

Yes, the Office of AIDS administers a program known as OA-HIPP (Office of AIDS Health Insurance Premium Payment Program). This program specifically helps California residents diagnosed with HIV/AIDS by covering their monthly health insurance premiums. It is available to those who are currently insured and at risk of losing coverage, as well as those who wish to purchase health insurance.

What is the contact information for the Office of AIDS regarding the OA-HIPP program?

Individuals seeking information about the OA-HIPP program can call (800) 367-2437. This line is dedicated to assisting residents in understanding their eligibility and application processes for this specific program tailored for those with HIV/AIDS.

Where can I find more information about the HIPP program?

For comprehensive information on the HIPP program, including eligibility requirements and the application process, the California Department of Health Care Services website is the best resource. By visiting http://dhcs.ca.gov/hipp, individuals can access all necessary details to understand and navigate the program effectively.

Common mistakes

  1. Incorrectly Filling Personal Information: Ensure that all personal details, such as name, address, and date of birth, are accurately entered. This verification can prevent delays in processing your application.

  2. Not Checking Eligibility Criteria: Review the eligibility criteria carefully. Missing qualifications, such as not having full scope Medi-Cal coverage, can lead to immediate disqualification.

  3. Ignoring Private Insurance Details: Include all relevant information about your current private insurance policy. Failure to disclose this can result in rejection of your application.

  4. Missing Treatment Documentation: You must indicate if you have received treatment for a covered medical condition within the last 90 days. Omitting this information may affect your eligibility.

  5. Not Evaluating Cost-Effectiveness: Ensure your insurance is cost-effective compared to Medi-Cal’s coverage. Failing to provide this information can delay the review process.

  6. Overlooking Submission Instructions: Follow all submission guidelines closely. Ignoring specific instructions may lead to your form being rejected or returned.

  7. Failing to Update Information: If there have been changes in your health coverage or personal circumstances after submission, notify the department promptly to avoid issues with your application.

  8. Neglecting to Keep Copies: Always keep copies of your submitted form and any supporting documents. This practice can help in case there are questions or follow-ups needed.

Documents used along the form

The DHCS 9061 form plays a crucial role in facilitating participation in the Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program in California. However, there are various other forms and documents that may be essential in conjunction with this application. Understanding these documents can help ensure a smoother process when seeking benefits under the HIPP program or Medi-Cal in general.

  • Medi-Cal Application Form (MC 13): This form is necessary for individuals to apply for Medi-Cal benefits. It collects essential information about the applicant's income, family size, and any existing health coverage.
  • Verification of Other Health Coverage (DHCS 3304): This document is used to verify any existing health insurance policies the applicant may have, which is a requirement to qualify for the HIPP program.
  • Income Verification Documents: Applicants must provide proof of income, which may include pay stubs, tax returns, or other financial statements, to establish their eligibility for Medi-Cal.
  • Authorization for Release of Information (DHCS 3775): This form allows the DHCS to obtain necessary information from other entities to process the Medi-Cal application, including details about existing health coverage.
  • COBRA Enrollment Notification: If applicable, this document shows enrollment in a COBRA health insurance plan, which can be a pivotal part of qualifying for the HIPP program.
  • Medicare Application Form: If the applicant has applied for Medicare benefits, this documentation is crucial as being a Medicare beneficiary affects eligibility for the HIPP program.
  • Notice of Action (NOA): This notice is issued by Medi-Cal to inform applicants of their eligibility determination. It serves as important documentation in the case of an appeal or follow-up.
  • Health Insurance Policy Documents: These documents detail the specific terms of any existing private insurance policies, which are necessary to assess their cost-effectiveness under the HIPP criteria.
  • Personal Identification: A government-issued ID is typically required to verify the identity of the applicant. This may include a driver's license or passport.
  • Proof of Residency: A document confirming the applicant's current residence, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, is necessary to establish eligibility for California’s Medi-Cal program.

Gathering these documents along with the DHCS 9061 form can significantly streamline the application process and improve the chances for approval in the HIPP program and other related benefits. Always ensure that each document is complete and accurate to avoid delays in processing.

Similar forms

The DHCS 9061 form is comparable to the Medicare Savings Program (MSP), which helps certain individuals pay for their Medicare premiums. Like the HIPP program, the MSP requires applicants to meet specific eligibility criteria, including income and resource limits. The MSP also aims to alleviate financial burdens related to healthcare costs, ensuring those who qualify can maintain access to necessary medical services. Individuals enrolled in both programs can benefit from coverage that mitigates expenses associated with healthcare, albeit through different funding mechanisms.

Another similar document is the Low-Income Subsidy (LIS) application, which assists individuals in paying for prescription drug costs under Medicare Part D. Both the LIS and the HIPP programs serve to support low-income individuals by offering financial assistance for health-related expenses. They have a means-tested aspect, meaning applicants’ income and resources are evaluated. Those eligible for LIS can receive reduced premiums and cost-sharing, mirroring the financial support aspect of the HIPP program for private insurance costs.

The Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) enrollment form also shares similarities with the DHCS 9061. CHIP provides health coverage to eligible children in families with incomes that are too high to qualify for Medicaid but too low to afford private coverage. Similar to the HIPP program, CHIP aims to cover the medical expenses of young individuals, ensuring they have access to essential services. Enrollment requirements for both programs prioritize health coverage availability for families facing financial constraints.

The Application for Health Insurance Coverage (AHIC) can also be paralleled with the DHCS 9061. This application is designed for individuals seeking coverage through various state programs, including Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Both documents require applicants to provide detailed information regarding their current health insurance status and household income. The AHIC helps ensure that individuals can navigate various healthcare options available to them, just as the HIPP program does for those with existing private insurance.

The Medicaid application form itself bears resemblance to the DHCS 9061 as it seeks to determine eligibility for Medicaid coverage, a program inherently connected to the Medi-Cal and HIPP initiatives. Both require applicants to furnish personal and financial information, aimed at assessing qualification for healthcare services. The overarching goal in both cases is to guarantee that low-income individuals and families have access to necessary medical care, with the Medicaid application specifically focusing on those without access to other forms of insurance.

There is also a connection to the Emergency Medi-Cal application, which provides immediate healthcare coverage for individuals during medical emergencies. Like the HIPP form, the Emergency Medi-Cal application seeks to assist individuals in acute circumstances by enabling access to healthcare services. Individuals who apply for this coverage are often facing dire situations, emphasizing the critical role both forms serve in overcoming healthcare access obstacles.

The Family Planning Access Care and Treatment (Family PACT) program application can be seen as another analogous document. Family PACT provides low-income individuals with access to family planning and reproductive health services at little to no cost. Both the HIPP program and Family PACT work towards reducing barriers to healthcare, albeit in different healthcare domains. Individuals must demonstrate eligibility based on income, similar to the HIPP program's prerequisites for financial assistance.

The COBRA notice is also significant when discussing documents analogous to the DHCS 9061. COBRA allows individuals to continue their employer-sponsored health insurance after leaving their job under specific conditions. This notice informs individuals of their right to maintain coverage. In a broader sense, both the HIPP program and COBRA's provisions are designed to ensure individuals do not abruptly lose their health insurance during transitional periods, guiding them through available options and support systems.

Lastly, the application for the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) subsidies mirrors the intent behind the DHCS 9061. The ACA allows individuals to apply for financial assistance to help reduce the cost of coverage purchased through health insurance exchanges. Like HIPP, the ACA aims to make healthcare more affordable and accessible, and both programs evaluate financial need to determine assistance levels. The core mission of these applications continues to center on improving individuals' access to necessary healthcare services through strategic support aimed at addressing financial strain.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the DHCS 9061 form, certain actions can help ensure a smooth application process. Here’s what to do and what to avoid:

  • Do double-check that you meet all eligibility requirements before applying.
  • Do provide complete and accurate information regarding your private insurance coverage.
  • Do indicate any medical conditions you have that are covered by your insurance.
  • Do be sure to submit your application online for quicker processing.
  • Don't apply if you are not enrolled in Medi-Cal.
  • Don't leave out any pertinent details about your premium costs and coverage.
  • Don't submit the form if you are already fully reimbursed for your insurance premiums.

Misconceptions

Below is a list of misconceptions about the DHCS 9061 form, specifically related to the Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program administered by the California Department of Health Care Services.

  • Misconception 1: The HIPP program is automatically available to everyone who loses their job.
  • This is inaccurate. The HIPP program requires full scope Medi-Cal coverage and other eligibility criteria.

  • Misconception 2: Individuals can apply for HIPP without having active private insurance.
  • This is incorrect. One of the key requirements is that applicants must have an existing private insurance policy at the time of application.

  • Misconception 3: You can qualify for HIPP even if your other health coverage is not cost-effective.
  • This misconception overlooks the fact that eligibility depends on the cost-effectiveness of your private insurance compared to Medi-Cal.

  • Misconception 4: You don't need to have received treatment for a medical condition recently to qualify.
  • In reality, treatment for the medical condition must have occurred within 90 days of the application to HIPP.

  • Misconception 5: All Medi-Cal recipients can participate in the HIPP program.
  • This is false. Individuals enrolled in Medicare or in a Medi-Cal managed care plan do not qualify.

  • Misconception 6: The HIPP program applies to anyone who applies for Medi-Cal.
  • Eligibility is limited to those who meet specific criteria, including requiring private insurance at the time of application.

  • Misconception 7: HIPP benefits cover any and all medical expenses.
  • HIPP only offers reimbursement for premiums and cost-sharing, not direct medical expenses.

  • Misconception 8: If I have COBRA or CAL-COBRA, I cannot apply for HIPP.
  • This is untrue; COBRA and CAL-COBRA plans meet the requirement if they are in effect at the time of application.

  • Misconception 9: You can still apply for HIPP if you've been court-ordered to receive insurance from a non-custodial parent.
  • This is misleading. Court orders can disqualify applicants from the HIPP program.

  • Misconception 10: The HIPP program will reimburse all premium costs.
  • This is a misconception. Only those premiums that are considered cost-effective compared to Medi-Cal will be reimbursed.

Key takeaways

When using the DHCS 9061 form, it is essential to keep the following key points in mind:

  1. Eligibility Requirements: You must have full scope Medi-Cal coverage to qualify for the HIPP program.
  2. Existing Insurance Policy: An active private insurance policy, COBRA, CAL-COBRA, or COBRA Conversion policy is required at the time of application.
  3. Medical Condition: You must have a medical condition covered by your insurance and have received treatment for it within the last 90 days.
  4. Cost-Effectiveness: Your other health coverage must be more cost-effective to Medi-Cal than the cost of your care.
  5. Medicare Application: You need to have applied for Medicare benefits to qualify.
  6. Ineligibility Conditions: Be aware that you will not qualify if you are enrolled in a Medi-Cal managed care plan.
  7. Application Process: If eligible, apply online at the specified DHCS website to start the process.

Understanding these takeaways can enhance your experience while filling out the DHCS 9061 form and ensure that you meet all the necessary requirements for the HIPP program.