This news item expired on Sunday, May 31, 2009 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
Medicaid is a health insurance program for certain low-income and needy people including children, the aged, blind, disabled, and/or people who are eligible for WorkFirst. Approximately 15% of the population of Buncombe County is enrolled in Medicaid.
Medicaid - More information and how to apply.
If you earn too much income to qualify for Medicaid, an alternate program, Health Choice provides health coverage for uninsured children of working families who are not Medicaid eligible but meet eligibility guidelines. The yearly fee to cover children ranges from $0, $50, and $100, depending on family income (and in some cases we can find funds to cover this fee). Over 3,440 children in Buncombe County received medical coverage through this program during Fiscal Year 2008. 
Health Choice - More information and how to apply.
To find out if you are eligible for Medicaid, Health Choice and other programs or to apply for services, come by the Department of Social Services (directions & parking) or visit one of the DSS Community Outreach locations. We want to make sure that any eligible person is enrolled.
Don’t be fooled by myths surrounding Medicaid -- get the facts.
Questions? Call the Department of Social Services at 250-5500.