I am eligible for Medicaid because of my income, but I am not eligible because I have been a resident for 3 and 1/2 years. Any advice?

What are you saying citizenship is taking longer now? Isn't it still five years from when you entered and got your Legal Perment Resident (green) card?

You may need to look for solutions outside the government programs. There may be organizations like Union Gospel Mission or organizations for the blind to help with this. Can you work out a payment agreement with the doctor doing the surgery? There may a state medical program for emergency care for aliens but I doubt if cataract surgery would fit the definition of emergency. Did you come to the US with a sponsor? How about financial help from the sponsor? Is there some sort of group of people from your home country that helps people out? Do you have health insurance on your job? Can you save money to pay for this yourself or get a loan, or charge it on a credit card, or qualify for Care Credit? Or have a friend pay for it and you repay them? What all have you tried?

I have no solutions, but I just want you to know that my heart goes out to you.

We often advise to call your local area Agency on Aging. There is also, in my state, the opportunity to call 2-1-1 for help. You can also ask your doctor for help. Speak with the person at your place of employment who deals with Human Resources and tell them of your trouble; they may be more sympathetic to your situation than you think. If worse comes to worst, contact one of your local television stations and share your story with them. Good luck. Please let us know hiw you are.