April is Medicaid Awareness Month! Over 1.8 million Washingtonians are covered by Washington Apple Health, including 835,000 children and over 586,000 new adults, thanks to our state’s decision to expand Medicaid in 2014. Medicaid is a lifeline for families – covering 45% of births nationwide, but nearly half (49%) in Washington State. A recent study found that infant mortality declined 50% more in Medicaid expansion states than in non-Medicaid expansion states.

Medicaid offers comprehensive benefits that provide vital home care services to people with disabilities, allowing them to live independently in their communities and find and keep employment. Medicaid also helps many seniors live in their homes and communities by paying for long-term services, medical transportation, and other supports.