Almost 92 million people were insured through Medicaid as of November 2022, but the government estimates that about 15 million may lose coverage as the COVID-19 public health emergency ends.
If you’re concerned about losing your healthcare coverage with this change — or if you already have — read this to learn about what led to this moment and what to expect moving forward.
What’s happening with Medicaid?
Shortly after the pandemic began, Congress passed the Families First Coronavirus Response Act requiring states to keep Medicaid members continuously enrolled until the emergency ended.
As of April 1, 2023, states began returning to regular operations, including performing eligibility checks and terminating benefits for those no longer eligible.
States will have a 12- to 14-month “unwinding period” to determine who will still be eligible for Medicaid, and many people will lose their coverage during this time.
How soon could coverage end?
You may have lost coverage as early as April 1. Certain states are quicker at determining eligibility than others, so it could take up to a year before you’re removed from the program.
Notifications of non-coverage can arrive via mail, phone call, text message or email. You could also receive new forms allowing you to re-enroll if you’re eligible. Re-enrollment could take at least 30 days to complete, and the coverage could be retroactive up to 90 days.
What should you do next?
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services are allowing a Marketplace Special Enrollment Period for those who qualify but lose coverage during the unwinding. You can apply for Marketplace health insurance from March 31, 2023, through July 31, 2024. Premium tax credits based on your income could mean you pay nothing for this coverage.
It can be a confusing time when you’re no longer Medicaid eligible. Please don’t hesitate to call or email with your questions.