HERO Program

Healthcare Eligibility Resource Options

The HERO (Healthcare Eligibility Resource Options) program provides services to screen uninsured and underinsured patients for available health care coverage through local, government and internal programs.

Our financial counselors have a library of resources available. You may qualify for programs based on financial hardship, a disability or the type of care you need. Some financial resources and community agencies available include:

Financial Resources:

• Medicaid
• Women's Way
• Prescription Assistance Programs
• Veterans Administration North Dakota/Minnesota Children with Special Health Needs
• Altru's Community Care Program

Community Agencies:

• County Social Services Department
• Public Health
• Infant and Children's Services
• Senior Services Support groups for specific needs/topics

Medicaid Coverage Unwinding

Nationwide people covered under Medicaid are at risk of losing Medicaid coverage. If you were enrolled in Medicaid, there are steps you may need to take to ensure your coverage continues. The Altru HERO Program has Certified Application Counselors on-site and ready to assist you. We can help with the Medicaid renewal process, shop for new healthcare coverage or provide a referral to one of our broker partners. For assistance, please call the HERO Program at 701.780.5060.

 FAQs

Why was the HERO program created?

Altru Health System’s patient advocacy department created this program to better meet the needs of the uninsured and underinsured. HERO is a free resource for all and has CACs in North Dakota and Minnesota.

How does the program work?

Altru’s HERO program consists of Certified Application Counselors (CAC) that are trained to connect patients to the Affordable Care Act’s expanded coverage options. Our CACs will assist our patient by educating, preparing and applying for health care coverage through the health care marketplace (otherwise known as the exchange). We will guide you in comparing plans side by side and provide information on choosing a plan that meets your needs and fits within your budget.

What is the goal of the HERO program?

The HERO program's goal is to provide long-term solutions to help alleviate the financial burden of medical expenses before they occur by finding healthcare coverage through government, local and internal programs.

What can I expect if I meet with the HERO program?

The application process, from start to finish, forms a partnership between you and the HERO team. You can expect the HERO team to be your advocate through healthcare financial complexities and they will care for you and your family needs as well. Beyond healthcare, the HERO program can assist with additional resources such as housing, food, childcare, etc. to focus on the patient as a whole.

American Indians & Alaska Natives Applying for Coverage:

• When an American Indian or Alaska Native enrolls in coverage with the Federal Marketplace, they can continue to receive services from their local Indian healthcare provider and access services from non-IHS providers. No referral from an Indian healthcare provider is needed to seek out treatment.
• Special Enrollment Periods (SEP): Members of federally recognized tribes can enroll in Health Insurance Marketplace or change plans throughout the year, outside of the enrollment period.
• American Indian & Alaska Natives can enroll in zero cost sharing plan, no copays, deductibles or coinsurance.
• Preventative benefits and dental and vision benefits for children under the age of 19 are included in Marketplace plans. Utilizing preventative benefits is a “medicine or other treatment designed to stop disease or ill health from occurring.”
• Marketplace enrollment may help to ensure access to a wider range of providers and services.

To receive assistance or guidance regarding available programs and eligibility, please call 701.780.1500. To find more information on Financial Assistance click here.

HERO is a free resource for all individuals and families. For more information, view our brochure or call 701.780.5060.