Central Health Medical Access Program (MAP) Begins Enrolling People by Phone Only

In-person eligibility interviews suspended in response to Omicron variant

(Austin) – Central Health is suspending in-person eligibility appointments for Medical Access Program (MAP) applicants to reduce exposure to the highly contagious Omicron variant.

Central Health MAP eligibility specialists are currently contacting everyone with an existing eligibility appointment to conduct their interviews over the phone. Applicants will then be able to mail, fax, or email their applications for processing. Anyone with a scheduled appointment who has not yet been contacted can call 512-978-8130 to speak with an eligibility specialist in English or Spanish.

“The health and safety of everyone, from applicants to our own staff, is our primary concern. Last year we were forced to implement this same plan, and because of that experience we now have a process that we know works and still results in people getting access to the care they need,” said Central Health Senior Director of Eligibility Services Kit Abney Spelce.

In-person appointments may resume once local risk-based guidelines are lowered – Austin/Travis County is currently in stage four.

Anyone needing to apply for MAP can do so online at any time at www.centralhealth.net/get-started or www.centralhealth.net/es/empezar for Spanish. The website provides information on what documents are needed to apply as well as a link to the MAP Application.

If someone comes to a Central Health Eligibility office seeking MAP enrollment, staff will safely provide a paper application to complete off-site. All applications and documents can be submitted as described below.

Individuals experiencing homelessness will still be seen at the eligibility office at Central Health Southeast Health & Wellness Center, 2901 Montopolis Drive.