Health Insurance – Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA)
What it is
Refugee Medical Assistance (RMA) is a public health insurance that can be a Medicaid alternative in those states that have limited Medicaid eligibility to specific groups such as children, pregnant women, the elderly, or disabled individuals. These states include Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kansas, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. Low-income Ukrainians on U4U can apply for RMA. Unlike Medicaid, which can be renewed yearly, RMA lasts ONLY for the first 12 months after your arrival.
Coverage
RMA coverage is similar to Medicaid and includes essential medical services at no cost to you. Some of the services that may be covered include:
Hospital services: Inpatient hospital care, including surgeries, emergency room visits, and overnight stays, may be covered under RMA.
Primary care visits: RMA may cover routine check-ups and treatment for common illnesses from primary care providers.
Specialty care: RMA may cover visits to specialists, such as dermatologists, cardiologists, or psychiatrists, when necessary.
Diagnostic tests and screenings: RMA usually covers diagnostic tests, laboratory work, X-rays, and screenings, such as mammograms or colonoscopies.
Prescription medications: RMA typically covers necessary prescription medications, although specific drugs covered can vary.
Immunizations: RMA typically includes coverage for vaccinations.
Limited coverage for vision care: Depending on the state, RMA may include coverage for vision services such as eye exams and glasses.
Eligibility
Low-income refugees or humanitarian parolees who don’t qualify for their particular state’s Medicaid eligibility requirements (see the states mentioned above).
How to apply
For detailed information on applying for RMA, it is recommended to contact your local resettlement agency or the state's Medicaid office. They can provide specific guidelines, list of required documents, and program updates.
You have options for healthcare
Navigating the US healthcare system can seem daunting, but you have many options available to help you including:
For more general info about what it’s like to obtain health care in the US, the documents you’ll need, and how to apply, visit our healthcare general info page.