Millions of people are set to lose Medicaid coverage as the Covid Public Health Emergency expires. The automatic continuous coverage policy that was enacted during the start of the pandemic is ending, and all current Medicaid beneficiaries will be reviewed for eligibility will be reviewed.
Even those who are still eligible may lose coverage, and it is critical for those with Medicaid coverage to make sure they will still receive benefits.
Worse still, losing Medicaid eligibility will negatively impact your continued participation in other programs such as the Affordable Connectivity Program and D-SNP Medicare benefits.
What Happens if You Lose Your Medicaid Benefits?
Losing your Medicaid benefits can be a devastating event for you and your family, as it can result in a loss of access to necessary healthcare services. Without Medicaid coverage, you may find it difficult or impossible to afford medical treatment, prescription medications, and other healthcare costs. This can lead to a decline in your physical and mental health, which can negatively impact your ability to work and carry out daily activities. Additionally, if you have a chronic or serious medical condition, losing Medicaid benefits can be particularly dangerous, as it can result in a lack of ongoing treatment and monitoring.
In addition to the potential health consequences, losing your Medicaid benefits can also have financial implications. Without access to affordable healthcare, you may be forced to pay out-of-pocket for medical expenses, which can quickly add up and result in significant debt. You may also be unable to work or earn a steady income if your health condition worsens, which can lead to further financial instability
Medicare D-SNP Plan Loss
Losing your Medicad will also mean a loss of your Medicare D-SNP plan. A Medicare D-SNP plan is a type of health insurance that provides coverage for those with Medicare who are also eligible for Medicaid. These plans offer comprehensive coverage that includes doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, and other services. Without this coverage, you may be forced to pay out-of-pocket for medical expenses, which can be costly.
It is important to note that those who lose Medicaid eligibility may still be eligible for Medicare, however, the coverage and cost-sharing will differ from what was offered under the D-SNP plan. It is also important to remember that even if you are no longer eligible for Medicaid, you may still be able to obtain health coverage through other means such as private insurance or a subsidy program.
If you find yourself in the difficult situation of losing Medicaid eligibility, it is essential to explore your options and take steps to ensure that you have access to affordable healthcare. Contacting a local healthcare advocate or social service organization can help you identify potential programs or assistance that may be available in your area.
How Does Medicaid Impact Your Lifeline and ACP Benefits?
If you rely on Medicaid for your Lifeline and ACP benefits, losing your Medicaid coverage can impact these services as well. If you are no longer eligible for Medicaid, you will need to update your status with your Lifeline and ACP provider by providing proof of other government assistance programs you participate in or proof of income that falls below the Lifeline and ACP income levels.
Tip: EASY Wireless customers can call our customer service hotline at (877) 476-3451 and make the necessary changes to their accounts in order to ensure that they remain connected.
Failure to update may result in losing your FREE Cell Phone and Data Plans and add to your financial burden of the need to pay for new plans.
How to Check Your Medicaid Status?
If you are dependent on Medicaid benefits and want to ensure that your coverage is maintained, contact your state Medicaid agency for support. Each state office can be found at: medicaid.gov. Select your state from the interactive map to find your local office.
How to Appeal Your Loss of Medicaid Benefits?
If you lose your Medicaid benefits, you may be able to appeal the decision. Depending on the specific reason for loss of coverage, there may be a process that allows you to challenge the decision and request a hearing. Contact your state Medicaid agency for more information about how to file an appeal or request a hearing.
Learn about the steps of the appeal process from Nolo.com
In some cases, it is also possible to apply for Medicaid coverage again, if certain eligibility requirements are met. Contact your state Medicaid agency for more information about the process and required documentation.
Not Currently Enrolled in Medicaid?
Medicaid is a government-funded healthcare program that provides health insurance to low-income individuals and families in the United States. The program is jointly funded by the federal and state governments, and it is administered by each state. Medicaid provides various health services, including doctor visits, hospital care, prescription drugs, and preventative care, such as immunizations and cancer screenings. Additionally, Medicaid covers long-term care services, such as nursing home care, home health aides, and hospice care, for eligible individuals who require these services.
One of the major benefits of Medicaid is that it provides healthcare coverage to millions of people who would otherwise be unable to afford or access healthcare services. This includes low-income families, children, pregnant women, individuals with disabilities, and seniors.
You can apply online to determine if you are eligible for this program. Apply at Medicaid.gov or through Healthcare Marketplace.
Don’t Delay in Confirming Your Eligibility for Medicaid
Avoid being one of the eligible Medicaid beneficiaries that lose Medicaid benefits during the Medicaid review process beginning April 1. Contact your state Medicaid agency to confirm your eligibility ASAP.
Failing to do so can result in serious health and financial consequences, as well as the potential loss of other benefit programs such as Lifeline and ACP.
