Glossary
Medicaid paperwork is full of abbreviations and jargon. Here is what they mean in plain English.
ABD Medicaid
Coverage for people who are Aged (65+), Blind, or Disabled. Different income and asset rules than HIP.
Co-pay
A small amount you pay when you use a service. On HIP, co-pays come from your POWER account, not your wallet directly.
DFR
Division of Family Resources — the Indiana agency that processes Medicaid applications. Part of FSSA.
FPL (Federal Poverty Level)
A number the federal government sets each year based on income and household size. Indiana Medicaid uses FPL to decide if you qualify. HIP covers adults up to 138% FPL.
FSSA
Family and Social Services Administration — the Indiana state agency that runs Medicaid. Helpline: 800-403-0864.
HHW / Hoosier Healthwise
Indiana’s Medicaid program for children under 19, pregnant women, and some low-income families.
HIP
Healthy Indiana Plan — Medicaid for adults ages 19–64 earning up to 138% FPL. Comes in two levels: HIP Plus and HIP Basic.
MCO (Managed Care Organization)
A private health insurance company that Indiana pays to manage your Medicaid benefits. Indiana’s MCOs are MDwise, Anthem, Indiana Total Care, and CareSource.
NEMT
Non-Emergency Medical Transportation — free rides to medical appointments for Medicaid members who cannot otherwise get there.
PCP (Primary Care Provider)
Your main doctor — the one you see for checkups and who refers you to specialists.
POWER Account
A health savings account used by HIP Plus members. You contribute a small monthly amount; Indiana adds more. Co-pays come from this account.
Prior Authorization
Approval your MCO requires before covering certain services or medications. Your doctor requests this on your behalf.
State Fair Hearing
An official process to appeal a Medicaid decision. You have the right to request one within 30 days of a denial.