Medicaid renewal has changed—find out if this affects you

Medicaid is a government-funded health insurance program designed to provide healthcare coverage to low-income individuals and families. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Congress passed legislation to provide for continuous enrollment as to avoid interruption in coverage during a global health crisis.

But that’s changing. By the end of 2022, over 85 million individuals were enrolled in Medicaid—and over 14 million could lose coverage due to these changes.

If you or someone you know is on Medicaid, it’s time to act. We’re here to help—read the following carefully to learn more about Medicaid renewal in 2023 and what steps, if any, you need to take to avoid a gap in your insurance coverage.

What is Medicaid redetermination?

Every year, the federal government reviews all Medicaid enrollments to determine that enrollees still satisfy coverage requirements. Often called “Medicaid renewal,” this process is vital to fairness when it comes to providing aid.

Medicaid renewal can have significant implications—because income can change, eligibility for Medicaid has to be reconsidered from time to time. If you or a beneficiary of yours can’t complete the redetermination process by the deadline your state has set, you many not receive Medicaid this year and have to find other coverage options. This can leave you or your loved ones with limited or no access to necessary medical care, including preventive care and treatment for chronic conditions.

Why is Medicaid redetermination happening now?

During the COVID-19 pandemic, enrollment in Medicaid increased by over 20 million individuals. At the beginning of the pandemic, the federal government suspended Medicaid redetermination to help people maintain coverage, even if they were no longer eligible.

In 2022, Congress passed legislation marking March 31, 2023 as the restart of Medicaid redetermination by ending continuous Medicaid renewal. This could leave over 14 million without Medicaid coverage.

What should I do about Medicaid redetermination?

If you wish to re-enroll in Medicaid, it is very important that you take the following actions:

1. Update your contact info. Make sure your Medicaid program has your current contact info.
2. Check your mail. Your state will send important renewal information in the mail.
3. Complete your renewal. Return your form to avoid loss of coverage.
4. Find out more. Check on your status with your local Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).