A guide for seniors, families & caregivers — Updated 2026
Hawaii’s Medicaid program works a little differently than most states. Rather than operating a traditional fee-for-service Medicaid program, Hawaii uses a managed care model called QUEST Integration (QI). If you are a senior in Hawaii looking for help covering health care costs — or you are a family member helping a loved one apply — understanding how QUEST Integration works, who qualifies, and how to apply is the essential first step.
What Is QUEST Integration?
QUEST Integration is Hawaii’s primary Medicaid managed care program, administered by the state’s Department of Human Services (DHS), Med-QUEST Division. It consolidates several older programs — including the former QUEST, QUEST-Net, and QUEST-ACE — into a single comprehensive program serving most Medicaid-eligible residents, including seniors and people with disabilities.
Get the Complete Medicaid Guide for Seniors →
Under QUEST Integration, covered members receive their Medicaid benefits through a managed care plan (also called a health plan) rather than billing the state directly. Hawaii contracts with private health plans to deliver services, coordinate care, and manage costs. Seniors enrolled in QUEST Integration can receive:
- Inpatient and outpatient hospital care
- Primary care and specialist visits
- Prescription drug coverage
- Mental health and substance use services
- Long-term services and supports (LTSS), including home- and community-based care
- Nursing facility care for those who qualify
Who Is Eligible? QUEST Integration Eligibility for Seniors
To qualify for QUEST Integration as a senior in Hawaii, you must meet requirements in four main categories: age or disability status, residency, citizenship, and income/assets.
- Age: Adults age 65 and older automatically meet the categorical requirement.
- Residency: You must be a Hawaii resident.
- Citizenship: You must be a U.S. citizen or a qualifying immigrant (certain lawful permanent residents may qualify).
- Income: Your monthly income must fall within program limits (see table below).
- Assets: Resource (asset) limits apply for seniors seeking long-term care coverage.
2026 Income and Asset Limits for Hawaii Medicaid Seniors
| Coverage Type | Individual Monthly Income Limit | Asset Limit (Individual) |
|---|---|---|
| QUEST Integration (Standard) | ~$1,732/month (138% FPL) | No asset limit |
| Nursing Facility / Institutional Care | Up to $2,901/month | $2,000 |
| HCBS Waiver (Home & Community-Based) | Up to $2,901/month | $2,000 |
Note: Income and asset figures are estimates based on 2026 federal guidelines and Hawaii state adjustments. Figures may change. Always verify current limits with the Hawaii Med-QUEST Division before applying.
Seniors who have income or assets above these limits may still qualify through spend-down provisions or by establishing a Qualified Income Trust (Miller Trust) for nursing facility care. A benefits counselor or elder law attorney can help you explore these options.
How to Apply for QUEST Integration in Hawaii
- Gather your documents. You will need proof of identity, Hawaii residency, Social Security number, income (such as Social Security award letters or pay stubs), and asset information (bank statements, property records).
- Apply online. Visit the Hawaii myBenefits portal to submit an application electronically. This is the fastest method.
- Apply by paper. Download the Medicaid application form from the DHS Med-QUEST Division website and mail or hand-deliver it to your nearest Med-QUEST District Office.
- Apply in person. Visit a local Med-QUEST District Office on Oahu, Maui, Hilo, Kona, or Kauai for in-person assistance.
- Apply by phone. Call the Med-QUEST Division at (800) 316-8005 for assistance or questions.
- Await your determination. Hawaii typically processes standard applications within 45 days. Applications involving a disability determination may take up to 90 days.
- Choose a health plan. If approved, you will select one of Hawaii’s contracted QUEST Integration managed care plans to receive your benefits.