Health Basics
One of the most important responsibilities you have as an adult is how you access health care. Young
adults who were in foster care on their 18th birthday can get health insurance through the state of
Arizona. It does not matter how much money you make. If you live in Arizona, you can get free health
insurance until you are 26 years old. It is important to know how to use your health insurance. This guide covers the basics of health care and your rights as a former foster youth, so you can stay healthy
for years to come.
Health Insurance Coverage
Health coverage is an essential when you transition out of foster care. In fact, it’s now the law that everyone have some kind of coverage. Check out Young Adult Transitional Insurance (YATI) – an Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) plan that is no-cost or low-cost – for Arizona foster care young adults. (AHCCCS is Arizona’s Medicaid.) Find a Navigator from Cover Arizona to help you with the AHCCCS application. Be sure to tell the Navigator that you’re a former foster care youth who is interested in YATI and AHCCCS.
YATI: Frequently Asked Questions
Get Up-to-Date If possible, before leaving foster care get a comprehensive physical from a primary care doctor, and see a dentist and optometrist or ophthalmologist for complete dental and eye exams.
Collect Important Information Get copies of your health records so if you have to start with a new doctor, you can provide your medical history. See what information you should gather to create your own “Health File.” It’s your right to have all of your medical information and legal documents when you are getting ready to turn 18, make sure you Know Your Rights.
Find Healthcare Services
Know how to prevent sexually transmitted diseases, deal with anxiety and depression and make healthy lifestyle choices. If you need to see a medical professional – or are looking for reliable health information – the organizations and websites below can provide both. Ask if the providers accept AHCCCS or if they offer low-cost or no-cost healthcare services.
Arizona has Community Health Centers – You’ll find these Federally Qualified Health Centers throughout Arizona. These medical clinics provide comprehensive primary care to anyone regardless of insurance status.
Other Sources for Healthcare Services
Get Healthy Information Check out these websites for health information that’s useful and written in non-medical language.
- Go Ask Alice – A health Q&A Internet resource sponsored by Columbia University.
- National Institutes of Health – The National Institutes of Health (NIH) website provides comprehensive health information, resources and tools.
- Stay Teen – A website dedicated to encouraging young adults to avoid the responsibilities that come with too-early pregnancy and parenting.
- WebMD – Health information, tools for managing your health, and support if you have questions.