The streamlined application for Medicaid and the Marketplaces asks whether the person or any family members have a disability. The question on the form is:
Do you have a physical, mental, or emotional health condition that causes limitations in activities (like bathing, dressing, daily chores, etc.) or live in a medical facility or nursing home? (See Application for Health Coverage & Help Paying Costs)
While this question serves as a starting point for identifying people with disabilities, it is broadly drafted and does not help identify the specific impairments or activity limitations that Navigators should be aware of in order to provide comprehensive assistance. Some people with disabilities also might elect not to answer ‘yes’ to the question because they do not think it applies to them. For example, someone with osteoarthritis who has some difficulty walking may not perceive that problem as a “limitation in activity” and therefore does not identify as a person with a disability. Even if someone elects not to self identify as having a disability, it will be important for Navigators to identify disability by eliciting information from the person about possible needed assistance related to functional impairments so appropriate accommodations can be offered. Navigators also require this information in order to assist individuals to identify appropriate, specific healthcare benefits, services, and equipment they might require from a health plan or product.
