State Website - “Virtual Gateway”

NEW ACCESS TO HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES INFO

The state Executive Office of Health and Human Services is using the Internet in a promising new program that allows consumers to access a variety of programs in a new “Virtual Gateway.” Launched in August, the Virtual Gateway is accessible from the EOHHS Web site, www.Mass.gov/eohhs. This site serves as a single access point on the Internet for consumers and providers to access health and human service programs in Massachusetts, using the following new online tools:

• A Catalog of Services with program descriptions that include service offerings, the application process, and contact information.
• An Eligibility Screening Tool that citizens and providers can complete to find out about potential eligibility for health and human service programs.
• A Common Intake Data Collection Tool that allows service providers to enter applicant information into one online form, generating applications to multiple EOHHS programs. This tool is being rolled out gradually to providers.

These tools are currently available for these EOHHS programs:

• MassHealth, the state’s Medicaid program (including Healthy Start and the Children’s Medical Security Plan),
• Child Care,
• Food Stamps,
• Women Infants and Children Nutrition program (WIC),
• Women’s Health Network,
• the Uncompensated Care Pool,
• Substance Abuse (catalog and screening only),
• and Early Intervention (catalog only).

The Catalog of Services and Eligibility Screening Tool are accessible to all providers and consumers. The Common Data Intake Collection tool and Mass Health Application Tracking tools are being rolled out gradually to HHS providers, with a goal of rolling out to over 100 providers by April of 2005. Here are just a few of the benefits the Gateway offers:

• Improved access to HHS programs and services through a single point on the Internet
• A central source for HHS program descriptions and eligibility information
• A straightforward way to apply for multiple programs and services
• Increased efficiency, quality, and consistency of service for both consumers and providers
• Tools that ensure complete and accurate program applications

-Adapted from: Health on the Hill, A Publication of the (MA) House Committee on Health Care, November 18, 2004, Vol. II, No. 20.