The Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA), Department of Children and Families (DCF), Department of Health (DOH), and Department of Elder Affairs (DOEA) have announced a service to help Medically Needy Beneficiaries find alternative sources of care in their communities before the new share of cost requirements go into effect May 1, 2003. 

A toll-free number, 1-888-419-3456, has been established for beneficiaries to find out about their options. 

These agencies are working to ease some of the effects that the Medically Needy Beneficiaries may encounter from the May 1 program changes.

They are organizing state agencies, local community organizations and private sector partners to provide support to Medically Needy Beneficiaries. Their goal is to help patients connect with community and private sector programs that provide health care services and medications. 

Beneficiaries who need assistance beginning May 1 will be aided by state agencies' staff in accessing the resources available in their county of residence.  Examples of alternative sources of assistance include utilizing federally qualified health centers, county health departments, and use of pharmaceutical company drug-assistance programs. 

The agencies will be in communication with the beneficiaries and are working with various health organizations and nonprofit groups to disseminate information. Further details on types of assistance available will be forthcoming. 

Medically Needy Beneficiaries who have questions or want to find out what resources or services are available in their respective counties can call toll-free, 1-888-419-3456, Monday – Friday from 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM.