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Reviewed October 1, 2026

DC Health Care Alliance

DC Health Care Alliance is locally funded medical assistance for qualifying residents outside Medicaid. Current adult eligibility differs from older descriptions.

Who can apply

DHCF’s current adult page lists ages 21–25, District residency, financial eligibility and no other health insurance, including Medicare. Children use a separate Alliance pathway.

What help is available

The current adult page describes fee-for-service care rather than managed-care delivery. Confirm a participating provider before an appointment.

Documents to prepare

  • Age, District address and household income information.
  • Details of any existing insurance.
  • Records requested by the eligibility office.

How to get started

  1. Check the correct pathway

    Review DHCF’s adult Alliance page and the separate children’s link.

  2. Ask about current intake

    Use DHCF’s linked application guidance or contact DHS at 202-727-5355 to identify the correct application.

  3. Read the decision and provider guidance

    Do not rely on a previous managed-care card or an older guide to determine current coverage.

After applying

Keep renewal and coverage-change notices. Ask DHCF about other coverage or care options if the current Alliance category does not fit.

Website screenshots

These images show the pages captured in August 2026. Website screens and rules may have changed.

The DC Department of Health Care Finance Health Care Alliance page.
August 2026 reference screenshot.
The District Direct benefits portal.
August 2026 reference screenshot.

Common questions

Is this Medicaid?

No. Alliance is a locally funded program for qualifying residents outside Medicaid.

Does the adult page cover every adult age?

No. It currently lists ages 21–25.

Are children included in this adult category?

Children have a separate pathway linked by DHCF.

Is it still managed care?

The adult page states delivery has changed to fee-for-service.

Sources and review

Content checked October 1, 2026 using Current DHCF adult Alliance eligibility. Current eligibility and the final decision remain with the program.

Historical screenshots: source reference.