In Washington and throughout the country, states are starting a massive review of Medicaid (Apple Health) eligibility of enrollees for the first time in three years. There was a moratorium on terminations during the pandemic. It’s estimated that 300,000 people statewide will lose their coverage in the coming year despite meeting eligibility criteria. NoHLA is advocating for strategies to mitigate improper terminations in Washington.

The Health Care Authority (HCA) began reviewing eligibility this month and over the coming year will be sending notices requesting information about current income, resources, and other eligibility factors, unless eligibility can be determined through electronic data sources. People who have not been in contact with the agencies, have not provided updated information, or who gave information indicating that they are no longer eligible will likely be reviewed first, starting this month and continuing through May and June. Terminations could start as soon as the end of April, but  higher numbers are expected in the months of May, June and July. The best recommendation for Apple Health clients is “Don’t wait, update!” Additional information is available from NoHLA here and from HCA here.

For those interested in supporting the effort to educate enrollees during this critical time, HCA has issued a call for volunteer Apple Health Ambassadors, to help spread the word and ensure that Apple Health clients hear how they can maintain their coverage. Ambassadors can be from anywhere, in fact, HCA is hoping to include representatives from clinics, community groups, schools, county and state agencies, faith-based organizations, plans, providers, and others to provide culturally-appropriate messaging. Monthly educational and training webinars are available to support Ambassadors. You can support people keeping their health care by signing up to be an Ambassador by emailing Apple Health.