What is Medicaid Unwinding?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal government implemented a continuous Medicaid enrollment policy. This meant that even if someone’s financial situation improved, they remained eligible for Medicaid. Now, that protection is ending. States are starting to review Medicaid eligibility again, and those who no longer qualify will lose their coverage.
How Does This Affect You?
If you or someone in your household has been on Medicaid during the pandemic, it’s crucial to stay informed. States are required to check the eligibility of everyone enrolled, which means some individuals and families may receive notices indicating they no longer qualify for Medicaid coverage.
In some cases, people might not receive notice in time or might not understand what they need to do to maintain coverage. That’s why staying proactive is key.
What Are Your Options If You Lose Medicaid Coverage?
If you receive a notice stating that your Medicaid coverage will end, don’t panic. There are several options available to ensure you and your family continue to have access to healthcare.
- Marketplace Health Insurance
One of the best options for those losing Medicaid coverage is to look into Marketplace health insurance plans. Through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace, you can explore a variety of health plans that suit your needs and budget. Financial assistance may be available depending on your income, so you could potentially receive premium subsidies that make marketplace coverage more affordable. - Special Enrollment Period
Losing Medicaid coverage qualifies you for a Special Enrollment Period (SEP), which allows you to enroll in a health plan outside of the regular open enrollment period. This is a great opportunity to find a new plan without any delays in coverage. - COBRA Coverage
If you or a family member had coverage through an employer and recently lost it, COBRA allows you to continue the same health insurance plan. However, COBRA can be expensive, so it’s important to compare this option with marketplace plans to see what works best for your situation. - Employer-Sponsored Insurance
If you or someone in your household has access to health insurance through an employer, now may be a good time to explore those options. Sometimes, employer plans offer a more cost-effective solution compared to marketplace or COBRA plans.
What Should You Do Next?
Navigating the end of continuous Medicaid enrollment can feel overwhelming, but with the right resources and guidance, you can ensure you’re covered. Here’s a quick action plan:
- Keep an eye out for any Medicaid notices. Make sure your contact information is up to date with your state’s Medicaid office so that you don’t miss important notifications.
- Explore your health plan options. Whether it’s through the marketplace, COBRA, or an employer, there are several avenues to maintain coverage.
- Reach out for help. At Marketplace Nebraska, we specialize in helping people find affordable health insurance. If you’re unsure of what steps to take, we’re here to guide you through the process and make it as easy as possible.
Final Thoughts
The Medicaid unwinding process is a significant transition, but you don’t have to face it alone. Understanding your options and acting quickly can help you avoid gaps in coverage. If you’re unsure where to start, Marketplace Nebraska is here to help every step of the way. We’ll work with you to find the right plan and make sure you and your family continue to have access to essential healthcare services.
Don’t wait until your coverage ends—reach out to Mark at 402-718-9400 today to explore your health insurance options!
