July 1 is the official start date for Medicaid expansion in South Dakota. However, officials say eligible people can start applying ahead of time.
Tony Burke, the state government relations director, advised people to apply early. He said it can take up to 45 days to receive an eligibility letter. By applying early, eligible applicants might see their coverage begin soon after the July 1 start date.
Sarah Houska, an American Heart Association volunteer, said it can be a daunting process to apply for the first time.
"It is a book we hand you,” she said. “And while, if someone goes through it with you who knows it, it becomes approachable. But it is still a difficult application for people to approach when they haven't been trained on it."
Houska said it's important to seek help to avoid frustration. For assistance, reach out to the department's customer support team by calling the state's 2-1-1 helpline, or go to getcoveredsouthdakota.org.