For Immediate Release:
April 13, 2021
Media Contacts
Amy Webb, Chief of Communications
amy.webb@dhs.arkansas.gov
Gavin Lesnick, Deputy Chief Communications
gavin.lesnick.dhs@dhs.arkansas.gov
New Access.Arkansas.Gov Features Make Applying for Medicaid Easier
DHS Updates, Modernizes Online System
(LITTLE ROCK, Ark.) – Arkansans applying for or getting health care coverage through Arkansas Medicaid will see new features on the Access.Arkansas.gov website, the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) announced Tuesday.
Arkansans can now:
- Submit a single application for an entire family online, by mail or phone, or in person at local county offices statewide
- Renew their cases or update information online
- Upload documents
- Read notices from DHS and set up text and email alerts
- Check the status of applications or renewals
The updated system adapts to smart devices and is available 24 hours per day, seven days per week.
“We have listened to client feedback and made updates that help us better serve our clients,” said Mary Franklin, Director of the DHS Division of County Operations. “These new features will give Arkansans more options to apply for benefits and manage their information in whatever way is best for them. We also have taken this opportunity to streamline internal processes and improve the communications clients get from us.”
The agency has gradually released updates to the Access Arkansas website for health care in counties across the state. This process began with a successful test pilot in five counties in December 2020, and it then expanded to 43 more counties in March. As of Monday, the Access Arkansas website is available for residents in all counties.
To get started, Arkansans can visit Access.Arkansas.gov and create a new account. Step-by-step videos for how to use the new features are available on the DHS website.
A new internal worker portal also was launched to help DHS staff process applications more efficiently. Robust training and communication efforts began for DHS workers last year to ensure staff are ready to serve clients.
Updates for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Transitional Employment Assistance (TEA) program are planned for release in late 2021.
For more information about Access Arkansas or how to apply for health care benefits, visit humanservices.arkansas.gov.
