MICHIGAN — The new Healthy Michigan Plan that expands Medicaid to nearly half a million residents in the state has provided coverage to 85,761 people since the program kicked off April 1. 

The ACCESS Employment and Human Service Center in Dearborn has been overwhelmed since enrollment for the program began.  

On Wednesday close to 9 a.m., the Center stopped accepting clients who needed help enrolling in Healthy Michigan, as it would take all day to service the dozens of people who were already there. The Center has been opening up at 8 a.m., and some people have stood outside of it before operating hours to get serviced faster. 

The Michigan Department of Human Services has extended the hours to several of its offices in order to accommodate those who need assistance enrolling in the plan. 

“Our residents will be healthier and our state stronger as people enroll in 

Healthy Michigan,” Gov. Rick Snyder said. “We’re off to a great start in getting the people the coverage they need. This plan, a state-created effort that reflects Michigan’s needs and values, will improve our quality of life as well as boost our economy as Michigan’s comeback continues.”

On average, Michigan residents have experienced minimal wait times on the phone and in person at DHS offices, with the majority of residents being able to submit an application within 30 minutes of arrival.  

“Our clients have been served well,” DHS Director Maura Corrigan said. “Whether that means having a welcoming ‘front door’ through MI Bridges online or lobby navigators in our offices assisting those who need some extra help in person, we are there and will be there for everyone signing up for the Healthy Michigan Plan.”

It is anticipated that Michigan will enroll 320,000 residents into the Healthy Michigan Plan in the first year, eventually providing coverage to more than 470,000.Health coverage under the Healthy Michigan Plan includes both federally and state mandated essential health benefits such as ambulatory patient services, emergency services, hospitalization, mental health and substance use disorder services, including behavioral health treatment, prescription drugs, rehabilitative services and devices, laboratory services, preventive and wellness services and chronic disease management, pediatric services including oral and vision care, and other medically necessary services as needed. Applicants for the Healthy Michigan Plan must be between the ages of 19-64, not currently eligible for Medicaid, not eligible for or enrolled in Medicare, and earning up to 133 percent of the federal poverty level (approximately $16,000 for single person and $33,000 for a family of four).

For more information about the progress of the Healthy Michigan Plan or to enroll, visit www.HealthyMichiganPlan.org or call 855.789.5610.