The 60-day countdown to the expiration of the January 16th renewal of determination that a public health emergency exists as a result of the continued consequences of the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) begins today, February 15th. As of now, the latest renewal is set to expire on April 16th. While it is possible another 90-day is in store, expiration is inevitable and becoming increasingly imminent with many states ending mandates and lawmakers beginning to call for an end to the public health emergency.
The implications of the public health emergency’s expiration are significant, particularly for the millions of Americans who have enrolled in Medicaid since the beginning of the pandemic. States have been prohibited from disenrolling Medicaid recipients during the emergency. The resulting one-way traffic has led to a skyrocket in enrollment and record numbers of beneficiaries. Upon the expiration of the emergency, states will begin the process of verifying eligibility and disenrolling those who no longer qualify.
While many will undoubtedly find a new plan during the resulting Special Election Period, many more may be surprised by their lack of coverage at their next doctor’s appointment. Most communication from Medicaid is sent via letter through the United States Postal Service. This creates a risk due to the fact that the response rate to this type of communication is notoriously bad, even in good times.
Requirements for Medicaid eligibility vary by state, but many will be expected to gather a variety of information, such as proof of employment, income or disability, along with other financial and health-related documentation, to maintain their coverage. Securing these documents is not always an easy task, particularly for the elderly, disabled, or other vulnerable populations during the pandemic. So, it is possible that many Americans will lose their coverage in the coming months.
This article is meant to serve as a Public Service Announcement to all of those currently enrolled in Medicaid. The best way to ensure uninterrupted coverage is knowledge and preparation. Luckily, we can assist with both! First, call (888) 417-1075 and one of our Licensed Agents can assess your chance of losing your Medicaid coverage when the time comes. If we find that you will remain eligible after the declaration expires, then you have nothing to worry about. However, if it seems likely that your coverage will be affected, we can help you prepare by finding the best plan available to replace your coverage when needed. Since there is no reason to make immediate changes, we can just take note of our findings and reach out when the final expiration of the public health emergency is approaching. That way, you don’t need to stress or even monitor the status of the emergency. We will keep you informed and protected. As always, our top priority is making sure that you are informed and protected. Stay safe and healthy.
SPEAK WITH A LICENSED AGENT ABOUT THE RISK TO YOUR MEDICAID COVERAGE!
