Blanca Ramirez Las Cruces, Nm created on Tue December 17, 2013

Not having health insurance for Blanca has been stressful, "I currently need heart surgery and have not been able to see a cardiologist because I do not have health insurance and I cannot afford it." But now she will have access to care because of the Medicaid Expansion.

Blanca signed up through the yes New Mexico website herself. “It took a long time but it was easy." In about a week Blanca received a letter notifying her that she qualified for Medicaid under the new guidelines. Her 20 year old daughter submitted an application and is waiting to hear back.

When asked how she felt about qualifying her response was “very excited to say the least.” Her food stamps have been reduced, “I’d rather have healthcare and lose out on the food stamps.”

“I am so excited for the new year!” making reference to when she will be able to utilize her insurance. She is now in the process of educating herself about the MCO’s.  She already has a pre-existing condition, a heart condition and she needs surgery.

Blanca plans to see a cardiologist as soon as she can, and 2006 was the last time she was able to see a dentist. This is the first time that she will have complete health coverage since 2001 unrelated to family planning.