Alberta Adult Health Benefit:Living in Alberta with a low income shouldn’t mean sacrificing essential healthcare. That’s where the Alberta Adult Health Benefit (AAHB) comes in. A program from Alberta Employment and Immigration, AAHB provides financial assistance for critical health services and products to low-income individuals and families.
What is Alberta Adult Health Benefit?
The Alberta Adult Health Benefit (AAHB) is a financial assistance program administered by Alberta Employment and Immigration. It provides funding for crucial health services and products to low-income individuals and families living in Alberta. The program aims to promote overall health and well-being and reduce the financial burden of healthcare for eligible residents.
The AAHB covers a wide range of essential healthcare services, including:
- Prescription medications
- Nutritional items
- Emergency ambulance service
- Dental and optical care
- Diabetic supplies
The specific coverage provided to each individual depends on their specific healthcare needs and income level.
To be eligible for the AAHB, applicants must meet certain income and residency requirements. They must also be residents of Alberta and have a low income. Income thresholds are determined by family size and are adjusted annually.
Who Qualifies for the Alberta Adult Health Benefit (AAHB)?:
1. Leaving Income Support or AISH:
If you’re leaving either program due to increased income through employment, self-employment, or CPP-D, you may still be eligible for AAHB temporarily.
2. Pregnant Women and Unborn Children:
Low-income pregnant women in Alberta can access AAHB coverage for themselves and their unborn children.
3. Families with High Prescription Needs:
If your family has low income and requires ongoing prescription medication for a chronic condition, you may be eligible for AAHB.
4. Alternative Options for Children:
Children from low-income households may qualify for free healthcare through the Alberta Child Health Benefit (ACHB). This program considers both net income and child support income when determining eligibility.
5. Income Thresholds:
| Family Size | Maximum Income (Single Adult) | Maximum Income (Couple) |
|---|---|---|
| Single Adult | $16,580 | N/A |
| 1 Adult + 1 Child | $26,023 | $31,237 |
| 1 Adult + 2 Children | $31,010 | $36,634 |
| 1 Adult + 3 Children | $36,325 | $41,594 |
| 1 Adult + 4 Children | $41,957 | $46,932 |
| Couple, No Children | N/A | $23,212 |
| Couple + 1 Child | N/A | $31,237 |
| Couple + 2 Children | N/A | $36,634 |
| Couple + 3 Children | N/A | $41,594 |
| Couple + 4 Children | N/A | $46,932 |
Programs Covered Under AAHB:
Step 1: Medications and Nutrition:
- Check the lists: AAHB covers medications listed in two specific documents: the Alberta Health and Wellness Drug Benefit List (DBL) and the AE&I Drug Benefit Supplement List (DBS). These lists categorize covered medications and nutritional products.
- Prescription Drugs: If your doctor prescribes a medication on the DBL or DBS list, AAHB will cover it. This includes both essential and maintenance medications.
- Non-Prescription Drugs: AAHB also covers certain non-prescription medications listed on the DBL or DBS, often those related to chronic conditions.
- Nutritional Products: Depending on your specific needs, AAHB may also cover essential nutritional items.
Step 2: Dental Care:
- Basic Procedures: AAHB covers fundamental dental services like fillings and extractions, ensuring you have access to essential oral health care.
- Additional Services: In some cases, AAHB might also cover additional dental services like annual checkups and teeth cleaning. Eligibility for these depends on your specific circumstances and budget.
Step 3: Vision Care:
- Eye Exams and Glasses: AAHB provides coverage for routine eye exams for adults every two years. For dependents under 18, annual eye exams and glasses are covered.
- Additional Vision Care: Additional vision care services are not typically covered under AAHB.
Step 4: Emergency Ambulance Services:
- Emergency Coverage: AAHB covers emergency ground ambulance transportation to the nearest hospital when no other insurer or government program is responsible for the costs. This ensures access to critical medical care during emergencies
How to Get Adult Health Benefit in Alberta?
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before applying, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria:
- Residency: You must be a resident of Alberta.
- Income: Your income must fall below the set thresholds for your family size. You can find the latest income thresholds on the Alberta government website: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-adult-health-benefit
- Citizenship/Status: You must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee claimant.
- Not receiving other benefits: You cannot be receiving Income Support or Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH).
Step 2: Gather Documents:
- Identity: Government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport)
- Residency: Alberta health card, utility bill, rental agreement
- Income: Tax slips, pay stubs, bank statements
- Family composition: Birth certificates, marriage certificate (if applicable)
Step 3: Complete the Application Form
Download the Alberta Adult Health Benefit Application form from the Alberta government website: https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-adult-health-benefit
Fill out the form carefully, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
There are three ways to submit your application:
- Mail:Â Send the completed form and supporting documents to the Health Benefits Contact Center:
- Address: Health Benefits Contact Center, PO Box 4500, Edmonton, AB T6E 4V5
- Fax: Toll-free fax number: 1-855-415-8386
- Online: Submit the application electronically through the Alberta government website (available in select areas): https://www.alberta.ca/alberta-adult-health-benefit
Step 5: Wait for Processing
It can take up to 60 days for your application to be processed. You’ll receive a notification by mail regarding the outcome.
Step 6: Get Your Health Benefit Card
If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Health Benefit Card in the mail. This card allows you and eligible family members to access covered healthcare services.
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