Qualifying low-income North Dakotans can now apply for health care coverage through the state’s Medicaid Expansion program, according to information provided by the State Department of Human Services.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota was awarded a four-year contract last year, with optional extensions, to administer the Medicaid Expansion Program. The program serves people younger than age 65 who have incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level, which is an annual income of about $17,000 for a household of one person and about $24,000 for a household of two people. Previously, the Medicaid Expansion program had been administered by Sanford Health Plan.

Blue Cross Blue Shield has worked with health care providers to enroll them in the Medicaid Expansion program in preparation for the transition, which took effect Jan. 1. Nearly all primary care providers within North Dakota are in-network. More information about which providers are in-network can be found by clicking on Find A Doctor at medicaid.bcbsnd.com People can also call Blue Cross Blue Shield member services at (833)-777-5779, 711 (TYY) or visit its website for more information.