Approximately 15 million U.S. residents will lose their health insurance, when the PHE ends. You may be asking yourself, why? During COVID-19, the government suspended the normal Medicaid routine of constantly culling people who are no longer eligible due to a relocation, reduction in household size or an increase in income. It created a Medicaid Continuous Enrollment Provision allowing them to remain enrolled.
Now that the government has declared an end to the Public Health Emergency (PHE), programs that were suspended or put on hold are gearing back up. What that means is notifications will be going out to everyone who currently receives Medicaid, asking for an update on contact information, income level and household size.
If you no longer meet the guidelines, you will be dropped from the Medicaid roster. If you do not receive the notification or do not reply, your state can still drop you. That’s why it is important to make sure your contact information on file is correct.
I’m Losing Medicaid Coverage, Now What?
If you are one of the millions of Americans who may lose their Medicaid coverage, you may be wondering how best to replace it. The good news: There are steps you can take to continue receiving the health insurance you need even if you missed open enrollment.
There is life after Medicaid for those who no longer qualify for this free or low-cost program because you may qualify for special enrollment in the health marketplace. Even if you no longer qualify for Medicaid because you make too much to qualify for the program or can’t afford private insurance, your children may still be eligible for the Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
Affordable Plans Available in the Health Marketplace
Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), health insurance is available for most Americans. Many who find their policy through the marketplace receive a financial subsidy to help them pay for their premium. This is especially true for people who get dropped from Medicaid during this transition.
Due to several government plans and legislation, marketplace subsidies are at their highest level ever. You may be surprised to find out that you qualify for health insurance that is nearly free with a subsidy. These subsidies do not have to be paid back, unless your income has increased since you were awarded the amount and you did not report it. When you file your taxes, you will be penalized if that happens.
It is true that not all private healthcare is affordable or covers what you need to have covered, so know that you can always consult a professional insurance specialist to help you navigate your choices.
Find the Perfect Healthcare Plan Today
The health marketplace, private healthcare, and even the Children’s Health Insurance Program can be confusing choices to navigate, but we are here to make sure you get the incredible coverage you deserve. At Freeway Insurance, we have caring and compassionate bilingual agents who can help you find affordable health insurance. All you have to do is get a healthcare quote online, give us a call at (800) 777-5620, or stop by one of our convenient locations.
