The Poverty Institute works to develop and promote policies to improve the economic security of low- and modest- income Rhode Islanders and ensure that tax and budget policies are equitable and adequate to fund vital public services.
General Public Assistance (GPA) Medical Provides limited medical coverage to individuals who are disabled longer than 30 days and unable to work. Coverage includes doctors visits and limited types of prescriptions. GPA recipients are entitled to free hospital care.
Who Qualifies? • Adults who cannot work due to a physical or mental problem that will last longer than 30 days.
• Must be a citizen or eligible immigrant. Eligible immigrants include: lawful permanent residents, refugees, persons granted asylum, persons granted conditional entry or paroled into the U.S.
Income and Resource Limits The resource limit is $400. The home in which the person lives is not counted. A car worth less than $4,650 and a car that is specially equipped to transport a person with a disability is not counted. The income limit is $327/month for an individual and $449/month for a couple.
How to Apply Apply at the local DHS office. To find the nearest office call DHS at (401) 462-5300 or see Where to Apply.
Information from the treating physician must be provided. A decision on GPA medical must be made within 30 days from the date of application. If found eligible for GPA, the recipient can request "Hardship Fund" cash assistance.
GPA Medical is granted for a 6 month period and can be renewed for an additional 6 months. After 12 months, the recipient must submit a new application.
Applicants denied GPA Medical benefits and recipients who are notified that coverage will be terminated receive written notice and have 10 days from the date on the notice to file a written request for appeal. Recipients can ask that benefits be continued until the hearing decision is reached. For more information on GPA click here to go to the DHS website.
RI Legal Services (1-800-662-5034) may provide assistance to families who are denied benefits.
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